In the 1970s, being an artist was considered wonderful, but it was not necessarily seen as a career through which one could make a living. “I wanted to do jewellery design, but my parents kind of thought that a degree in something would be better, so I became a teacher,” said Jolandi Ford, owner of Art on Main.

Eventually, at the age of 30, she started pursuing her passion. “There was a lady who gave art classes, and I tried it once, and I absolutely loved it. I realised there was something in me that I wanted to explore.”

She said painting brings her immense joy, inspiring her to start teaching art to others and share her passion. Art not only allows people to express their creativity but also creates a sense of community.

“I was born to create, you know, by a Creator. Now I am enjoying art with other people, and it also builds community. A lot of people are looking for that.”

Her students often inspire her more than she inspires them. Being surrounded by people who share her passion brings her joy and allows her to focus on the creative process rather than the final product. “For me, it’s all about the process and what I feel like when I’m actually doing art.”

Jolandi Ford, owner of Art on Main. Photo supplied

One of the biggest challenges she faced was learning to see herself as an artist. She initially felt formal qualifications or credentials were necessary to earn that title. However, she believes artistic ability is not limited to those with formal training.

“People must realise that anyone can be an artist. You don’t have to have a degree in art to call yourself an artist. I think deep down inside we’re all sort of a little bit of an artist, just in different ways.” 

Surrounding herself with supportive, like-minded people helped her overcome self-doubt. She believes perseverance and a willingness to embrace challenges are important when pursuing something new. “My personality is kind of a go-getter, wanting to do something new now and then.” 

Ford encouraged people not to let age hold them back from learning something new, saying that art is a skill anyone can develop with dedication and practice.

“If you are willing to learn something and you put your mind to it, art is definitely one of those things that you can learn. There is a lady who is 78 years old. She started art now, and she inspires me because she's learning something new and finding new purpose in something different that she’s never done before.”

OFM News/Siyakholwa Mbatyazwa dg

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