Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1978, our featured artist’s journey is one of resilience and transformation. Growing up, he lived in France and South Africa, developing a deep interest in science and basketball. His childhood fascination with science fiction and animated TV series, especially Japanese anime, sparked his imagination and creativity.
In 1996, he began studying physics at the University of the Witwatersrand. He graduated with a BSc in Physics and Applied Mathematics in 1999 and completed his honour’s degree in physics the following year. However, his academic pursuits were cut short in 2001, when he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, which led him to leave his master’s programme in 2002.
Art entered his life through a surprising route. As a child, he was captivated by the intricate details of anime and began drawing characters like Robocop. His passion for art was reignited in high school when he read Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards, which helped him hone his drawing skills. Despite his scientific background, he found solace and expression in visual art and poetry.
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The artist’s family, though not heavily involved in the arts, supported his creative endeavours. His grandfather and great uncle were talented artists, and his father, a doctor, and writer, and his mother, an avid reader, influenced his literary skills. Their love and care instilled in him a deep appreciation for people, which he now channels into his art.
Mental health challenges have profoundly shaped his life and work. His first encounter with depression occurred as a teenager in 1994, followed by the onset of bipolar disorder in 2001. These experiences led him to seek therapy and ultimately embrace Christianity. His faith became a cornerstone of his healing journey, inspiring him to use poetry and visual art as therapeutic outlets.
For him, art serves four essential purposes: release, mirroring, communication and prophecy. Through art, he expresses emotions, explores new ideas, and gains insights into his identity and faith. He refers to the struggles of mental health as ‘four prisons’—the condition itself, medication, societal stigma, and personal perspective. Art helps him break free from these constraints, providing a creative escape and a means of internal reflection.
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The artist’s preferred mediums are pencil, pen, and occasionally acrylic paint. His work blends realism and symbolic expression, often combining various elements to convey deep, reflective messages. He draws inspiration from his faith, mental health journey, and the people around him, particularly those with similar conditions.
In addition to visual art, he has ventured into poetry and music, using these forms to communicate his experiences and inspire others. His creative process is a blend of spontaneous inspiration, divine guidance, and meticulous planning. He often incubates ideas over time, drawing from diverse sources such as the Bible, books, movies, and TV shows.
Through his art, he aims to share messages of love, hope, and faith. He sees his work as a celebration of God’s love and a reflection of the beauty in people, particularly those struggling with mental health issues. His ultimate goal is to introduce others to Christ and help them discover their inner beauty and potential.
This artist’s journey from science to art, shaped by personal and mental health challenges, underscores the transformative power of creativity. His story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the healing potential of art.
