Sydney Kumalo (1935–1988) was born in Sophiatown, Johannesburg. He was initially influenced by renowned artists Cecil Skotnes and Edoardo Villa, who played a pivotal role in his artistic development. Kumalo's talent as a sculptor gained recognition under the guidance of influential Johannesburg gallerist Egon Guenther, leading to the creation of some of South Africa's most beautiful and evocative sculptures.
Kumalo achieved international acclaim through high-profile exhibitions in the mid-1960s, particularly at the Grosvenor Gallery in London and New York. From 1973 until his passing, he was represented by the Goodman Gallery, a period characterised by increased productivity and commercial success.
Text and Image Source: Sidney Kumalo and Ezrom Legae
