Mateki2Shoes: Unreal Medium
Mateki2Shoes, is a South African multi-talented artist, DJ, producer, designer, linguistic extraordinaire and culture specialist. He has earned a reputation as “the street concierge” of Johannesburg and Amsterdam, two cities that play a central role in his creative influence. As a prominent figure in South Africa’s youth and streetwear communities, his impact on fashion, art, and music is both profound and far-reaching.
Renowned for his dynamic presence in the global creative scene, Mateki2Shoes has made significant contributions to the intersection of fashion and art. In August 2023, he debuted his first art exhibition, Faces, in Amsterdam. This exhibition, which explores themes of human identity, individuality, and diversity, was deeply inspired by Mateki2Shoes’ personal experiences and interactions. The exhibit sought to encourage viewers to embrace a deeper understanding of each other, showcasing his talent for creating art that challenges perceptions and fosters a sense of empathy.
Through his multifaceted talents and compelling content, Mateki2Shoes continues to make significant contributions to both the cultural and creative landscape, bridging the worlds of music, art, and fashion with an innovative approach that resonates globally.
Big Qho! Seriously, what is your real name? And where are you from?
No one knows my real name—this is exclusive. My name is Lesego Mohapi. My dad is from Bloemfontein, and my mom is from Pretoria. My parents moved around a lot, which is why I have the same spirit of constant movement.
In your career trajectory what has been a tangible output you’re most proud of?
I’m proud of music, both as a DJ and a music maker. Everything I do creatively ties back to music because it’s my true passion. I studied music, and it’s been at the core of everything I’ve pursued. DJing has become a big part of that over the last few years. In the past three to four years, my journey in DJing has been great—it’s growing, but it’s been happening in a very organic, steady, and believable way. It’s not rushed, and I feel like it’s all coming together slowly, but surely, and it feels right.
When it comes to creating music and DJing, I really enjoy both, but I think I’m more drawn to the music-making process. DJing, while fun, can feel a bit short-lived because it’s more immediate and transient in comparison to the time and effort it takes to craft a set. Music making, on the other hand, is a whole different experience. I can get completely immersed in it for months at a time. I love the process of getting into a creative zone and experimenting with different genres. It’s thrilling to blend and fuse styles together, and that’s what makes the music-making process so exciting for me.
How do you see the infinite experimentation of fashion, art and music evolving in the future?
Fashion, music, and art are deeply interconnected, constantly influencing one another and driving trends. I believe the future of these creative fields lies in them working seamlessly together. My multifaceted approach reflects this, as I’ve always been drawn to various forms of art. For me, everything happens in one space—my office—where I shift between music, painting, and other creative activities. This led to my first exhibition in Amsterdam, where each floor of a three-story building represented a different aspect of my work: the top floor was an exhibition, the middle for a listening session, and the bottom a party vibe. It’s all about bringing everything together in a cohesive way that reflects my creative journey.
As a cultural concierge, in what ways have you seen your influence impact the industries you participate in / which ways are you in the process of influencing impact?
I don’t really think about making an impact—it’s not something I consciously aim for. I focus on being authentic, consistent, and putting my work out there. You don’t notice the impact until people point it out. I still see myself as just a normal person doing what I do, so when others say I’m having an impact, it surprises me. It’s interesting how perceptions have evolved, especially with agencies and corporations shaping the narrative. You don’t always feel like you’ve done enough, but others start recognizing your work and asking how you got there. It’s humbling, and it’s bigger than just me—it’s about how everything fits into the larger picture.
What legacy do you hope your contribution at the present time leaves behind?
The Dn8 was a game-changer, breaking away from traditional Air Max designs with its unique look and feel. For me, my legacy is about showing that you can create what you love without being limited by past expectations. I want the younger generation to understand that creativity has no limits, and they should overcome mental barriers to believe they can create without restrictions. By doing things differently, we’re setting an example that anything is possible. Whether it’s a young black woman starting her own business or someone forging a new path, we’re giving them hope. My legacy is about inspiring others to believe they can do it too. Change often faces resistance, but over time, people see its value, like how Desiree shifted the DJ scene for women in South Africa.
What is the word for the youth?
Just think about it. I always say, “Think about it,” and while it’s a joke, it’s also serious. The youth really need to reflect on their actions and consider the outcomes. If they don’t put in the effort now, they’ll face challenges later. My message is simple: Everything should be intentional. Don’t just have an idea and call it a day—put in the work and take the time to reflect.
