Giggs Kgonamotse Kgole, also known as Kgole, traces his origins back to the quaint village of Kutupu in Limpopo, where he was born in 1997. Raised in the vibrant surroundings of Tembisa, Johannesburg, Giggs Kgole's artistic journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.
A beacon of talent, Kgole's passion for art secured him a place of distinction among 25 scholarship recipients out of 3000 applicants, affording him the opportunity to attend the prestigious St John's College in Houghton. As the first in his family to experience a private high school education and successfully complete matric, he paved the way for a bright future, illuminated by his artistic brilliance.
In 2017, Kgole's dedication culminated in his first Solo exhibition, a testament to his relentless pursuit of artistic excellence. A year later, he was bestowed with the esteemed Presidential Scholarship, opening the doors to John Cabot University in Rome. There, in the heart of Europe, he presented his inaugural solo showcase titled 'Before the High Walls', leaving an indelible mark on the art world.
The year 2019 saw Kgole embark on a transformative journey, spending six enriching months in an esteemed residency organized by Undiscovered Canvas in France. His outstanding talent was recognized and celebrated, earning him the prestigious title of one of the Mail and Guardian's Top 200 young South Africans. Additionally, his masterpiece "God Ke Mama" claimed the People's Choice Award, gracing the cover of the 10th Anniversary Young Masters Art Prize catalogue in London—an accolade that echoes his exceptional skill and vision.
In 2020, Kgole's artistic prowess traversed borders, as he participated in the illustrious A History Untold group exhibition in the United Kingdom. The following year, he continued to make his mark internationally, taking part in the captivating Say My Name group art exhibitions in the UK. Simultaneously, he brought his artistic brilliance back home to South Africa, captivating audiences with a solo exhibition hosted in collaboration with Denzil's & Jo.
As a crowning achievement to his journey, Giggs Kgole's artistry has been recognized and honored once again. His remarkable artwork has been chosen for installation as part of St John's College's 125-year celebration exhibition, bestowing his creations with a permanent place of honor within the school's cherished features.
Giggs Kgole's artistic odyssey reflects an unwavering commitment to his craft, captivating hearts and minds across the globe. With each stroke, he weaves tales of cultural heritage, self-discovery, and human experience, leaving an indelible legacy for generations to come.
