So by now you should already have a clear picture of what HYPE is doing here, as SA street culture tends to have hidden gems on the lock down. Whether it be a dope graphic designer, sneaker enthusiast or beat-maker. Sometimes these gems are either overlooked or completely ignored. But have no fear, we gotchu! The #HYPE411 series (4+1+1=six questions) is here and this time around we got 19-year-old designer SVA on the spotlight.
1.As an intro, let the people know who are, what you do and where you are from?
My name is Siviwe Luvuyo Bayi mostly known as SVA ,19 years of age. I’m from a town in the Eastern Cape called Bizana,but I’ve been moving from place to place (between Dbn & Jhb) and now I’m in East London.
2.How did this whole illustration work start for you?
I started with an illustration of myself then I put it on Instagram, It got likes and then people started to DM me. I just did it for fun until my boy A-Reece asked for a hook up with the art and I did it. He liked it and then put it on his social networks. On Facebook I had so many invites in my inbox. Then it hit me and I decided to start profiting from my work.
3.Being an illustrator is nothing out of the ordinary these days, so how are you managing to stay in your own lane?
I wouldn’t really label myself as an illustrator. I am artistic and things like these are a hobby for me. Its fun and I also design, as I’m going to drop a clothing line which will be coming soon.
4.Obviously at first it starts off with you making a couple of graphic designs as a hobby, but overtime you start to see the value in it as you get more recognition. Is it 100% about the passion for you or do you see a lifetime ‘Guap making opportunity here?
I do it for a passion but everybody wants some art, so I saw an opportunity…Then the ‘Guap came and the money has been coming, but now I’m not going to do it as much as I do because I received an email for a job for my art and I thank God for the opportunity.
5.When tackling down a design, what sort of inspiration do you have to gain first as a driving force to make the piece?
I just need some good music playing and I’m on.
6.What would you say are the realest challenges of being an illustrator/designer?
There are a lot of illustrators out there but not all of them are good. The one illustrator I respect is Freshboi and he is talented. But the key point is to know how to get your art out there to the people and for them to see your art & want it.
@Iam_SVA