A creative collaboration between Nkateko Tshabalala, founder of Antares Co, and her father, DJ Ganyani, has led to the production of Wax on Wax.
This unique multi-sensory event, scheduled for 20 December, combines the art of candle-making with the captivating sounds of vinyl music, promising an immersive experience for participants in South Africa.
Tshabalala opens up about her connection to candles, which she reveals began in childhood, where they symbolised hope, spirituality, and comfort.
During the stillness of the COVID-19 lockdown, she says she found herself rediscovering that sense of calm, exploring fragrances and textures with growing curiosity.
She tells the Saturday Star that what began as a personal ritual evolved into a craft she refined during a period of unemployment in 2023.
“Candle-making represents hope, healing and expression,” Tshabalala said.
“It became a way to rebuild myself and bring beauty into people’s lives.”
Her intimate candle-making workshops at markets, where guests gather to pour candles, share wine and slow down, inspired her to expand the concept. That evolution led to Wax on Wax, an immersive experience layered with scent, sound and storytelling.
Tshabalala says combining her craft with her father’s musical legacy felt natural.
“Wax on Wax is born from the two ways my family shares light,” she explained.
“My father shares his light through music, and I share mine through candles. Both are made from wax, both create atmosphere, and both stir emotion.”
The event, set in a creative studio the pair share, blends candlelight with the warm, nostalgic sound of vinyl, creating an atmosphere anchored in memory and connection.
For DJ Ganyani, a pioneer in shaping South Africa’s house music culture, the event offers a rare opportunity to bring his artistry into a more intimate, reflective setting.
“It blends the legendary with the personal. This introduces a new emotional layer to his music: more intention, more emotion, and more human connection.”
Tshabalala also details that the lessons from previous workshops showed her the importance of innovation and meaningful engagement, inspiring Wax on Wax to go beyond a typical class.
The event incorporates music, food, wine and sensory storytelling, creating an experience she believes is deeply rooted in authenticity and family heritage.
Tshabalala credits her family, especially her father and her grandmother, as the biggest influences in her creative journey.
While her father inspired her commitment to craft and innovation, her grandmother instilled a spiritual connection to candles that continues to guide her work.
Looking ahead, Tshabalala says Antares Co is already exploring more sensory-focused events.
“Wax on Wax is just the beginning. We’re developing concepts that blend scent, sound, texture, taste and movement. Our goal is to create intentional experiences that help people reconnect with themselves and with each other.”
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
Saturday Star