J-BAC 2025 - Adult Top 15 Finalist - Monwabisi Hector Haas - A Day in Pola Park

Artist: Monwabisi Hector Haas

Artwork Title: A Day in Pola Park

Size: 286mm x 420mm

Medium: Pencil on paper

Framed

Inspiration:

I take joy in illustrating landscapes, believing they tell the stories of their inhabitants.

My art highlights the disparities faced by communities in a democratic South Africa,

reflecting the struggles of many young black South Africans in disadvantaged areas. I

aim to raise awareness and inspire change through my work.

“A Day in Pola Park” invites viewers to explore Pola Park, an informal settlement with

a diverse population. The artwork depicts a boy sitting on a trash bin, collecting

cardboard for recycling, illustrating the harsh realities faced by children in such

communities.

The artwork depicts animals scavenging near a trash bin, belonging to community

members who raise them for sale. Due to insufficient land for animal husbandry,

residents release them into public areas for food. This situation forces others to build

makeshift fences from wires, poles, and nets to protect their yards from stray animals

and mark their territory.

Artist Bio: 

My name is Monwabisi Hector Haas, born on May 10, 1989, in Uitenhage, Eastern Cape. I grew up with my parents and four siblings until their separation in 1996, after which I

lived between Uitenhage and Humansdorp. This challenging period led me to discover

art as therapy; I began tracing my brother's sneaker designs at six, turning a pastime

into a talent. In high school, my drawing skills gained recognition, and teachers

encouraged me to pursue art. After completing matric, I was accepted into the

University of Fort Hare, graduating with a fine arts degree in 2012.

After graduating, I encountered difficulties in securing art jobs due to the remote art

market and struggled to sell my work, resulting in a seven-year break from creating art.

The J-Bac Arti competition rekindled my passion, motivating me to create art once

more with a fresh sense of hope for success. I am hopeful that this newfound inspiration will continue to drive me to seize the opportunities available in this industry.