Tumelo Mphela was born 29 June 1995 in the rural village of Mohlotlo, Limpopo, where he grew up. His Teachers at Madibane High School recognized his talent and encouraged him to pursue a career in art. Tumelo is currently living in Johannesburg. While Tumelo initially fell in love with charcoal drawing (with the manner in which Charcoal can be used to create subtle texture and tone), he has since broadened his range. He now works in any artistic medium, including sculpture. His artworks often address social issues and he aims to create artworks that produce an emotional response in the viewer. Tumelo has exhibited twice at Trent gallery; his first exhibition there was titled Vision of the soul, Personal realities and The For Sale Project Exhibition at the Pretoria Art Museum.