A Journey of Artistic Passion

Growing Up:
Born on the 27th of May 1974 in Kazibalwe Village, located in the Mzimba district of Malawi, Dennis Zgambo's artistic journey began in humble surroundings. Raised in the Kasungu district, Dennis was recognized as an artist from a young age by his friends and family. His formative years were spent immersed in drawing and painting, using natural pigments he sourced from the abundant resources of his native surroundings.

Even as a toddler, Dennis showcased his creative spirit by mixing his porridge with butterfly wing scales, creating a unique medium for painting the walls of his village huts. Alongside his artistic pursuits, he found solace in activities such as fishing by the nearby river and engaging in music, handwork, woodwork, and playing "Chickwati" (Football), his favorite sport during childhood.

Admiration:
Throughout his life, Dennis has drawn inspiration from the indomitable spirit and transformative influence of Nelson Mandela, the former South African president. Mandela's exemplary life and leadership have shaped Dennis's artistic vision and perspective, making him a guiding figure in his creative journey.

Culture and Family:
Dennis hails from the Tumbuka ethnic group, a distinguished community located in northern Malawi. The Tumbuka people have faced historical challenges, including invasions and raids by the Ngoni tribe and the impact of the ivory and slave trades. Despite these obstacles, the Tumbuka community thrived during the colonial era, benefiting from educational opportunities. Dennis belongs to the Chewa tribe and holds the title of prince within his village.

The Tumbuka people, known as "waTumbuka," have a rich cultural heritage, with distinct sub-tribes led by various sub-chiefs under the paramount chief Chikulamayembe. Their language, chiTumbuka, is a Bantu language similar in structure and vocabulary to other Bantu languages.

Dennis is a devoted family man, with a wife and five children living in Malawi. He cherishes his visits to them, maintaining a deep connection to his roots and heritage.

The influence of music:
Dennis's artistic prowess extends beyond visual art; he is also a talented musician, singer, and songwriter. Collaborating with friends who own a recording studio in Diepsloot, an informal settlement, Dennis has written and recorded over 200 songs. His musical repertoire spans English, Zulu, and Chewa, with a focus on love ballads and gospel-inspired compositions.

While Dennis initially pursued visual art as his primary profession, he aspires to share his music with the world, aiming to showcase his heartfelt melodies and religious messages. Through his music videos, he aims to document his personal struggles and impart profound spiritual insights to a global audience.

The township Life:
During his tenure in Diepsloot, an informal settlement, Dennis experienced a challenging environment characterized by high crime rates, including rape, theft, and hijacking. As a foreigner, he faced additional risks, especially during xenophobic attacks targeted at non-South African foreigners.

The living conditions in Diepsloot were far from ideal, with sporadic access to electricity and limited water supply. Education was also a significant challenge, with children often having to walk long distances to reach the nearest school. Concerned for the safety and education of his family, Dennis sent his wife and children back to Malawi in 2015, while he remained in South Africa to provide for them.

Throughout his time in Diepsloot, Dennis overcame these hardships with an unwavering determination and a smile on his face. He assimilated into the community, learning different African languages to avoid standing out as a foreigner. Despite the difficulties, Dennis found inspiration in the struggles and stories of the township, which he now incorporates into his artworks, conveying powerful messages to the world.

Artistic Influence:
Dennis's artistic exploration knows no bounds. Like the great artists before him, he paints with purpose, utilizing a unique style that sets him apart. Through his life, Dennis has studied various artists, immersing himself in their techniques and styles. Three artists, in particular, have profoundly influenced him.

Pablo Picasso's transformative approach to art has left an indelible mark on Dennis. Inspired by Picasso's curiosity and innovative style, Dennis infuses his oil works with a modern aesthetic, inviting viewers to interpret his paintings, often rich in symbolic colors that convey intricate narratives.

Leonardo da Vinci's passion for anatomy, science, and engineering resonates with Dennis's own artistic journey. Like da Vinci, Dennis is self-taught and maintains numerous notebooks filled with studies of figures and nature. This knowledge finds expression in the intricate layers and construction of his artworks.

During a phase in his artistic evolution, Dennis found inspiration in Michelangelo's biblical realism. Devoting himself to painting stories from the Bible, he meticulously created oil paintings that he later donated to churches across South Africa. While Dennis has evolved his style, he continues to explore biblical narratives with a contemporary twist, sparking thought-provoking interpretations.

Dennis's artistic vision transcends the influences of these great masters, as he tirelessly works to create a legacy that reflects his unique perspective and enriches the world of art. Each artwork he produces becomes a significant addition to his portfolios, created with meticulous attention to detail and time management considerations, particularly when working with mediums such as oils.