My first contact with the arts was in 2012, when I started exploring my older brother’s computer and drew for the first time using the Paint Brush program. In 2018, without yet having any professional training and with only my computer and mouse as tools, I decided to start my artistic career. In 2021 I presented my work to the public, in a solo exhibition entitled “Garden Exhibition”, at my curator’s house. In 2022, I had my first exhibition supported by a cultural centre, 16 NETO, called “Powerful Africa Beauty”, and since then I have taken part in several cultural events. I recently took part in an event called “Transmissor Maputo”, a group exhibition featuring several artists from different fields.
My work can be defined as digital and contemporary visual art. I use a simple methodology in which the creative process starts from a portrait drawing of the human figure, done on paper in pencil; I scan it or take a photograph, transfer it to the computer and there I produce a complete recreation and reinvention of the drawing, in my own way. It is a technique that mixes technology and traditional drawing. The kind of work I make represents the human figure within the lines of blackness; I seek to value my culture by spreading the African portrait to the world; I also address themes related to society and the empowerment of African women. In my paintings and sculptures, the presence of the human figure reflects a concern with ethnic, moral and religious values; I seek to represent African identity realistically. I draw a lot of inspiration from the artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, who said in one of his interviews: “Black people are never portrayed realistically.” I start from the principle that when we create something, it is part of the fruit of our imagination and therefore part of our essence, so I feel that in each work there is a part of me. I have also recently started creating on canvas with acrylic paint, and at the moment I am developing several pieces that will form part of a collection to be announced shortly.
I consider that the importance of the artist to society goes far beyond mere entertainment; their role is fundamental to intellectual development, the shaping of opinion, social inclusion and education, and lastly, it is the most incredible way of making people see the world from a broader perspective. I believe that culture and the arts in Mozambique are constantly evolving, in their creation and in the discovery of new artists who embrace different methods and techniques. It is clear that art-makers of the old guard and of the new generation constantly seek to innovate, bringing new artistic perspectives to our country.
In the near future, I intend to be involved in inclusive projects and to hold more exhibitions nationally and internationally. My plans include becoming a more dynamic and versatile artist, embracing changes in my individual creative process that may include the implementation of other forms of expression and the use of innovative materials.
