Mongezi Ncaphayi, from Benoni, has always had a passion for art. From a young age, he would sketch under the guidance of his uncle, who was also an artist. However, as he progressed through high school, he sadly stopped pursuing his artistic endeavours.
After completing his primary education, Mongezi decided to study engineering. But fate had other plans for him when he met a man giving art lessons to young children at the local library. Despite being the oldest participant, he was welcomed into the lessons and rediscovered his love for art. Encouraged by his teacher, Mongezi made the bold decision to drop engineering and pursue his true calling in the world of art.
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Since then, Mongezi’s art has been exhibited internationally, showcasing his style that has evolved into abstraction. His earlier works focused on themes of migration, history, and the lives of migrant workers, using discarded tools from the mining town of Benoni to create graphic landscapes.
However, it was during his time at the Boston Museum that Mongezi decided to fully embrace abstract art, inspired by the diverse works he encountered overseas.
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Influenced by his upbringing surrounded by jazz music, Mongezi sees his art as a form of visual jazz. Just as he would listen to music and explore its impact on his emotions and spirituality, he translates those experiences into his prints, using colours and shapes to show the rhythm and movement he perceives. For him, art and music are inseparable, and his goal is to incorporate both into his work.
