FROM a distance, they look like real statues.
But when you get closer to them, they move, and onlookers scream in terror.
This is what the living statue artists Thulani Mahlangu and Mandla Masinga do for a living.
The duo from the Alexandra township in Joburg said living statues provide an amazing artistic flair that entertains and shocks people at the same time.
Thulani (33) said he learnt the art from his older brother Moses Mahlangu.
He said they perform at the traffic lights, in shopping centres, and also receive invitations to perform at the events.
"We want to entertain the public and brighten up their day. Being a living statue is not an easy job. You have to put in a lot of effort, from make-up to standing on the street for hours without moving," said Thulani.
ALSO READ - Famous presenter to marry Zuma!
Thulani said the response they receive from motorists and the public makes them feel special.
"Some people scream and run away, but they come back and talk to us and take pictures. It's a wonderful gesture because some people love what we do, and they tell us that we relieve their stress by making them laugh," Thulani said.
Mandla (31) said their act makes people happy. He said this is how they make their living.
"Being unemployed is hard. Through our performances, we get money to support our families. I have always loved entertaining people. I love making people smile. My favourite thing is the reactions of little kids who scream and run away, only to hug each other when they realise we are living statues," Mandla said.
