Stanton Europa is a multidisciplinary artist and creative entrepreneur from Cape Town whose passion for visual storytelling has become a powerful force in modern African design. 

Born on the Cape Flats, he was raised in a vibrant but challenging environment where creativity wasn’t always supported but where inspiration was everywhere. It was in the texture of the streets, the faces of his community, and the colours of the city that Stanton first began to see the world through a visual lens.

We spoke to Stanton Europa about his creative journey — the influences, the lessons, and the vision that continues to push his work forward.

Tell us a bit about growing up on the Cape Flats. What was your neighbourhood like, and what are some of your earliest, fondest memories there?

Growing up on the Cape Flats was full of highs and lows. My area could be rough at times, but it was also filled with warmth, good people, and energy.

Everyone knew each other — neighbours greeted one another, kids played football in the road, and music was always spilling from someone’s house. We made the most of what we had.

Some of my best memories are of being outside with friends till late, watching the sun go down over the blocks, and taking photos on my phone just for fun. That’s where my love for pictures and design started — seeing everyday life and wanting to capture it.

When you first started pursuing graphic design and photography, did you face any unique obstacles — maybe with access to technology, resources, or even people believing in the path you chose? How did you push past those hurdles?

Definitely. In the beginning, I didn’t have a proper camera or computer. I used my phone and whatever free apps I could find. Some people thought it was a waste of time.

But I kept going. I watched tutorials, learned by doing, and made the most of what I had. Over time, my work improved, and people started taking me seriously. The biggest thing was not giving up when things were tough.

Everyone needs a cheerleader. Who were your biggest supporters along the way — family, friends, mentors — and how did their belief in you fuel your drive?

My family and a few close friends have always been in my corner. Even when they didn’t fully understand what I was doing, they supported me. They’d tell me to keep pushing, that my time would come.

That meant everything. Having people believe in you, especially when you’re still finding your feet, makes a huge difference.

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What’s the most rewarding part of your work? Is it the finished product, the process, or the reaction from your audience?

For me, it’s when people see my work and feel something — when they can relate to it. I also love seeing something start from nothing and come together in the end. When a client’s happy, or someone tells me my work inspired them, that’s the best feeling.

About your portfolio — is there one specific project, photograph, or design piece that tells the most powerful story about your community or your personal journey?

Yes. I created a photo series about life on the Cape Flats — people just living their lives, kids playing in the streets, vendors selling food, real everyday moments.

It wasn’t planned or staged; I wanted to show what life here really looks like. I took some of the photos, but I also focused on the design side. That project means a lot to me because it shows where I come from and what our community’s truly about — not just the negative things people hear, but the real, beautiful side too.

Beyond the skills of design and photography, what’s the most important life skill you’ve had to develop to get to where you are today?

Discipline and patience. You have to stay focused and not expect results overnight. There were times I wanted to quit, but I told myself to keep going. I’ve also learnt to stay humble and keep learning — that’s how you grow.

What are your big dreams for your business and your art? Is there a specific goal you’re working toward that you feel will have a major impact?

I want to grow my business, Stanton Designs and Photography, into something bigger — maybe even a full creative agency one day. But more than that, I want to give back by helping young people from the Cape Flats who want to get into design or photography.

There’s so much talent here; people just need a chance. If I can create something that opens doors for others, that would mean a lot to me.

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What advice or message would you give to a young person on the Cape Flats today who has a creative dream but feels like the odds are against them?

Don’t give up because of where you come from. I know it’s hard — you don’t always have the tools or people who understand what you’re trying to do — but you have to start somewhere.

Use what you have, even if it’s just your phone. Learn online, keep practising, and never stop believing in your dream. Many of us think we can’t make it because we’re from the Flats, but we can. You just need to stay focused and put in the work.

Where can we learn more about your work, see your portfolio, and follow your journey?

You can check out my work on:

• Behance: @s.design_photography – A curated collection of my design and photography projects, including branding, fashion visuals, and street photography.
  
• Portfolio site: project14078255.tilda.ws
  
• TikTok: @s.design_photography
  
• Instagram: @stantoneuropa
  
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/stanton-europa – showcasing my professional background in multimedia and graphic design, and my focus on storytelling through visuals.

Preview from his portfolio.

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