Today we’d like to introduce you to Mugisa Deus
Hi Mugisa, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Mugisa Deus, Ugandan artist whose passion for expression burns brightly. Raised by his mother, Kabatensa Rose, and the late carpenter Mwesige Bornfance, Mugisa discovered his love for art early on, even facing playful scolds from teachers for adorning his notebooks with sketches. This passion only grew through his high school years, culminating in his graduation in 2014.
In an environment where artistic careers were often met with skepticism, Mugisa defied the odds. With the help of benefactors, he enrolled at the Michelangelo College of Creative Arts, where he honed his skills, earning both a Certificate and a Diploma in Art and Design with a focus on painting.
His artistic journey took a defining turn in 2015 when he met painters Kiwanuka Sadat and Wamala Kyeyune Joseph. Their mastery of portraiture ignited a spark within him, revealing the artistic possibilities he hadn’t fully grasped before. He embarked on a journey of self-discovery, experimenting with portraits of loved ones, eventually finding his niche in mainstream portraiture painting.
Years of dedicated practice led him to another revelation: the potential of using locally sourced materials, specifically bark cloth. This historically significant, locally made material resonated with him, adding a unique layer of originality, tradition, and cultural richness to his work.
But Mugisa’s artistic influence extends beyond portraits. He sees his artistic skills as a bridge to share his heritage and culture with the world. Through his “muka_threads” project, he uses clothing as a canvas, weaving stories of tradition and identity. He breathes new life into discarded materials, transforming old wood and rusted metal into functional art pieces, giving them a purpose and a safe haven.
Mugisa’s passion for art extends beyond creation. He has found himself in the role of educator, chosen to share his knowledge and inspire the next generation of artists. His dedication to nurturing artistic expression is a testament to his belief in the transformative power of art.
Mugisa Deus is a testament to the unwavering pursuit of passion. He is a storyteller, a cultural ambassador, and a testament to the transformative power of art, both within oneself and in the world around us. His journey is a testament to the boundless possibilities that lie ahead for those who dare to embrace their creative fire.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Early Struggles:
Passion vs. Education: Mugisa’s love for art manifested early, filling his textbooks with sketches. This likely led to conflicts with teachers who prioritized academic subjects.
Parental Discouragement:
Lack of Support: Mugisa’s parents might not have supported his artistic aspirations. Pursuing art as a career might have been seen as unpractical in their eyes.
Societal Pressures:
Art as a Viable Career: The Ugandan society Mugisa grew up in might have undervalued art careers. The pressure to pursue more traditional professions could have been immense.
Financial Constraints:
Limited Resources: Investing in art supplies and training might have been a financial burden for Mugisa, hindering his artistic development.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Deus stands out in the art industry for his unbounded creativity and commitment to artistic exploration. While he excels in portraiture drawing, painting, and incorporating recycled materials in his work, Deus isn’t confined by a single medium. This versatility, coupled with his commitment to originality, sets him apart from the crowd.
Beyond the Canvas: A Community Catalyst
Deus’s artistic journey extends beyond the creation of individual pieces. He actively participates in the art world through community management. This demonstrates his dedication to fostering a vibrant artistic ecosystem
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success is living a life that is congruent with one’s passions, talents, and purpose.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Muhumuza Sagio