“They say never meet your idol, but I met an inspiration and I told you I love you!” this is what a heartbroken David Tshabalala posted shortly after receiving the news that one of his role models, AKA, has passed away.
This year, the talented graphic designer, who goes by the name “Slaying Goliath” was afforded an opportunity of a lifetime to showcase his creativity in honour of AKA by designing an outstanding art piece which was sold at a pop-up art and merchandise exhibition held at the Mall of Africa in Johannesburg.
The exhibition took place on the 28th of January to remember the legacy of the late rapper who was shot and killed while having a night out with a few close friends in Durban last year.
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Speaking about what it meant to have his work displayed at the exhibition, David told local entertainment publication, The Citizen that the opportunity meant a lot to him.
“I never did it for any commercial gain, it was something I usually do in terms of social commentary and wanted to pay homage to AKA,” said Tshabalala.
“It meant a lot when the family approached me.”
Meanwhile, the 2022 DSTV Social Commentary Award winner’s admiration was not something that was simply experienced from afar, he recalled a time that he and the Fella in Versace singer met one another in person, after one of his shows.
“For me, it was a nice experience. It was about 20 minutes after he performed, he looked tired but he was cool. He took a selfie with me and told me that he’s a fan of my work” explained David.
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It is said that David created 21 art pieces that were each sold for R7 000. The Citizen further reported that 10 percent of the proceeds will go to the AKA foundation.
Meanwhile, he and the family are in talks of creating more artwork.
Also see: AKA’s long-time friend Sim Dope turns 36 on the same day as him
