By Malchus

Give him the paint. Give him the brushes. Give him the oils, and give him a few hours. He will undoubtedly translate whatever you desire onto a piece of canvas with remarkable precision.

That is exactly how 26-year-old, multi-talented Mzuzu-based painter Kondwani Nali makes a living. His world revolves around dipping his brushes into paint and capturing the essence of life through his artwork.

What began as a simple fascination with the world around him has now evolved into a thriving profession for this gifted young artist.

A Talent Born from Curiosity

“Painting is an inborn talent. I was first fascinated by moving objects. The first time I saw a bus, I was so intrigued that when I got home, I drew it in the sand using my fingers. That was the moment the seed of painting was sown in me,” Nali reminisces.

Initially, Nali did not take drawing seriously, nor did he realize that it would one day become a means of earning a livelihood.

“I’ve been practicing art for many years. The turning point in my career came when someone noticed my artwork and introduced me to a master in the field, Frank Kadiwa. I have drawn a great deal of inspiration from him,” Nali recalls.

After working with Kadiwa, Nali was further mentored by another seasoned artist, Myck Mtika, who helped refine his craft. “These are the humble masters who have shaped me into who I am today,” he acknowledges.

A Master of His Craft

Operating under the signature K. Nali (a short form of his full name), the young artist is confident in his ability to paint almost anything that comes his way.

“I create whatever I feel inspired to. My paintings cover various themes, and I also specialize in portraits, meaning I can capture your face exactly as it is. I work with acrylic paints, which are water-based and readily available, though they can be expensive.”

Nali spends most of his time at the Good Shepherd Business Centre, located behind the Mzuzu People’s Main Shop, where he continues to hone his craft.

Unlike many artists who look up to specific role models, Nali boldly asserts that he is his own model.

“If I set my goal to become like someone else, I may limit myself. Instead, I want to reach a point where people say, ‘I want to be like Kondwani Nali,’” he says with a chuckle.

Challenges and Hopes for the Future

One of the biggest challenges Nali faces, like many artists in Malawi, is marketing his work.

“The main problem here in Malawi is marketing. We depend on tourists to buy our products. Very few Malawians appreciate paintings enough to purchase them. I wish the government would establish national galleries in all regions to showcase our work. This could be a way to earn foreign exchange for the country and motivate young people who are sitting idle despite their talents,” he says.

Even great painters like Vincent Van Gogh and other masters of the Renaissance era would have admired such a determined and passionate artist.

“Artworks—whether painting or craft—hold the same value both nationally and globally,” he notes.

A Role Model for Aspiring Artists

Kondwani Nali is an inspiration to many young people in Malawi. Instead of waiting for employment opportunities, he has used his natural talent to become his own boss. His paintings speak volumes about his dedication and passion for his work.

The next time you feel like owning a masterpiece, remember the name—KONDWANI NALI!

For more information, contact:
Phone: +265 (0) 884418387
Email: kndwnnali@gmail.com