Madoda Fani was born in Cape Town and grew up in Gugulethu Township. He attended the Songeze Primary School where he had exposure to art from an early stage in his life.

After completing his tertiary education at Sivuyile Technical, Madoda commenced his career at The Potter’s Workshop where it became evident that this young artist was destined for great things.

After years of experimentation, he found his own unique, visual style. The intricate patterning revealed by close-up photography further inspired him and he started paying closer attention to the beautiful creatures all around him. Madoda’s finished works are beautiful and elegant, refined interpretations of winged creatures.

Some of Madoda’s awards include:
Joyful and Triumphant (1999) Ceramic Exhibition
Absa Western Cape Region Exhibition (2000) Best Earthen Ware
Salon Internationale d’Artisan (Second Prize)

Today, Madoda is part of the Light From Africa team. After joining the foundation as a resident artist in February 2011, he has taken up the role as creative supervisor, with a vision to develop and design new products using his exceptional painting and carving skills.