Proud Sibanda

My name is Proud Sibanda.

I have always had a love of art even from a very early age, throughout my schooling teachers motivated and encouraged me along the way.   

From then on, every opportunity I had to draw I had a pencil in my hand so much so that this was affecting my school grades, (and not seen as a practical skill) my parents were worried about my love of art. I knew all l wanted to do was draw.  

Sadly, when my father passed away when l was thirteen there was little extra money for my treasured art supplies and for a while I had to make do with what pencils and paper I could get my hands on. 2016 saw me giving up for a while due to of materials and confidence.  

In August 2018, I met another Artist who not only introduced me to oil painting but supplied me with all the materials – this was my introduction to oil painting. With my new found confidence (and mentor) I resumed my pencil drawings and was to be inspired again by another artist who introduced me to charcoal, which is now one of my preferred medium.  

With loads of encouragement from friends and family I have reignited my passion for drawing and painting once again I can get lost in capturing the wonder and joy of drawing portraits and wildlife.  

I also hope and pray that my God given talent will bring joy to others. For now, l am studying Visual Art at National Gallery of Zimbabwe School of Art.

Love and blessings to you and your families!