In the vibrant city of Durban, South Africa, Riteshni “Ritzy” Singh stands out as a remarkable artist and fashion designer, known for her unique approach to creativity and her significant contributions to the local art scene.
With a portfolio that includes the aesthetics at King Shaka International Airport and the renowned Mitera restaurant in Umhlanga, Singh’s journey is one of resilience, inspiration and a deep connection to her roots.
A creative upbringing
Singh was given her nickname by her grandfather, who fondly remarked on her posh way of drinking tea.
Growing up in Stanger, she was nurtured in a creative environment by her paternal grandmother, who encouraged her to explore various artistic avenues, including painting, sewing, poetry and dance.
“I was brought up in a very creative way,” Singh recalls, “and that has shaped who I am today.”
Tragedy struck early in her life when her father, a shoe manufacturer, was killed in an armed robbery at their home. This loss profoundly impacted Singh, shaping her perspective on art and creativity.
“My inspiration comes from my father. He taught me that art isn’t just about beauty – it’s about purpose,” she explains.
After his passing, creating art became a way for her to stay connected to him, turning his memory into meaning.
The path to artistry
Singh pursued her passion for fashion design at a small, privately owned college outside Kwadukuza.
Despite not having formal art training, she is a self-taught artist who has honed her skills over the years. “I am completely self-taught and have been naturally good at it since I was a child,” she shares.
Her father’s free-thinking spirit allowed her to explore her creativity without limitations, leading her to embrace her dual identity as both a fashion designer and an artist.
Currently, Singh is working on a project that is very close to her heart, which she hopes to share with the public soon.
“It is my dream to combine my art with my clothes, but there never seems to be enough time to manage all my projects,” she admits.
Navigating the challenges of the art world
Like many artists, Singh faces numerous challenges in her career.
“If you want this to be a business that generates a lot of money, then it’s about who you know, not how well you paint,” she explains.
The struggle to find a target market can be daunting, especially for those who create art for personal expression rather than commercial success.
“Not everyone will love your work, and it could take months or even years to sell something,” she adds.
Singh also highlights the difficulties faced by artists in South Africa, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.
“Sadly, being an Indian female means that I get overlooked for many jobs. From a commercial perspective, I am often told they want a white artist, or they already have one,” she reveals.
This reality reflects a broader issue within the art community, where diversity is still lacking.
Despite these challenges, Singh remains committed to her craft.
“My private home commissions make creating my own art a lot easier,” she notes, emphasising the importance of finding a balance between commercial work and personal expression.
Celebrating achievements
Among her many accomplishments, Singh takes pride in her work commissioned for King Shaka International Airport.
“That was a big deal for me,” she states, acknowledging the significance of this project in her career.
Additionally, her work at Mitera restaurant, where she attempted plaster art for the first time, stands out as a personal achievement.
“It came out beautifully, and that was a proper challenge with no room for mistakes,” she reflects.
The beauty of KwaZulu-Natal
Living in KwaZulu-Natal has also influenced Singh’s artistic perspective.
“I love KZN because of how balanced it is. Here, there is no rush; people greet you, talk to you, and there’s a sense of community,” she explains.
The natural beauty of the region, from its stunning beaches to the majestic Drakensberg mountains, serves as a constant source of inspiration for her work.
“Every day, I breathe in the beauty I see in front of me,” she adds, highlighting her appreciation for the environment.
Words of wisdom for aspiring artists
Singh’s journey has equipped her with valuable insights that she shares with aspiring artists.
“Don’t chase trends so hard that you lose who you are. The thing that makes you different is what people will remember you for,” she advises.
She emphasises that one does not need fancy training or resources to start; what matters is courage, consistency, and a strong belief in one’s vision.
“It’s not always easy to stay on the path, but you must push through,” she encourages.
As a mother, Singh’s son serves as her biggest motivator and supporter.
“I live my life wanting to make the world a better place for him,” she states, showcasing her dedication to both her art and her family.
