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MATTERS OF THE ART: Dyslexic artist Lerato Motau found her own voice when words failed her

Instead of allowing her condition to define her, the Soweto-based creative lets her works speak for her.

MATTERS OF THE ART: Dyslexic artist Lerato Motau found her own voice when words failed her

Soweto-born textile artist Lerato Motau, diagnosed with dyslexia in her teenage years, uses her art to tell her story and challenge perceptions of neurodivergence. Despite struggling with traditional literacy in school, her artistic talent flourished, leading to multiple solo exhibitions and works displayed in international galleries.

Motau's 17-meter-long installation, "Fabric of the Universe," is permanently housed at The Leonardo in Sandton. She emphasizes that her art is a form of self-expression and therapy, enabling her to communicate her experiences without the need for words. Motau actively advocates for dyslexia awareness, hosting gallery openings and talks to dispel misconceptions about the condition and support disadvantaged learners.

Written by urgent.news from Daily Maverick's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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