Vanderbijlpark artist Letlhogonolo blends illustration, symbolism and contemporary culture

Based in Vanderbijlpark, Letlhogonolo Sofe, the visual artist and illustrator draws on expressive line work, anime and manga influences, graphic typography, geometric patterns and symbolism to create layered compositions that feel both energetic and personal.

His practice is shaped by expressive line work, anime and manga influences, graphic typography, geometric patterns and symbolism, allowing him to combine several visual languages within a single composition.

Rather than keeping these influences separate, Sofe uses them together to create work that feels layered, energetic and deeply personal.

“My work is about bringing different visual languages together and allowing them to exist in the same space. I like the idea of creating something that feels chaotic at first, but still has a relationship and meaning when you look at it closely,” said Sofe.

Movement is an important part of his work, with different elements often appearing to compete for attention before coming together through composition.

This approach gives his art a sense of visual chaos, while still allowing each piece to feel intentional.

Sofe also draws from nostalgia and contemporary culture, using the things that have influenced and shaped him as part of his creative process.

Anime and manga references sit alongside typography, symbols and abstract forms, creating work that reflects both personal memory and modern visual culture.

For him, art is not only about creating something visually striking. It is also a way of observing and responding to the world around him.

“At the core of my practice, I use art to observe, question, document and make sense of life. Every piece becomes a way of processing what I see, what I experience and what stays with me,” he said.

His willingness to experiment has become a defining part of his artistic journey, as he continues exploring new ways of combining traditional drawing techniques with contemporary forms of expression.

As he develops his body of work, Sofe hopes to continue pushing the boundaries of his visual style while creating pieces that connect with people on both an emotional and visual level.

Through drawing, illustration and mixed media, the Vanderbijlpark artist is steadily shaping a body of work that reflects curiosity, movement, memory and the complexity of everyday life.