We were lucky to catch up with Carmel Katumba recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Carmel, thanks for joining us today. So, naming is such a challenge. How did you come up with the name of your brand?

ZONKY, a term steeped in its dual meaning of “odd” and “weird,” serves as a perfect metaphor for my identity and what I connected with growing up. It’s not just a word but a symbol of embracing the extraordinary and breaking free from the constraints of conformity. In a world that often pushes us towards uniformity, I found my own path by embodying the spirit of a zonkey – a rare and fascinating hybrid of a donkey and a zebra.

THEZONKYGIRL was born in 2015, a digital persona that marked the turning point in my journey of self-discovery. It became a testament to my decision to wholeheartedly embrace my uniqueness, regardless of the expectations set by society, family, or friends. I realized that I didn’t have to fit into a neat box or conform to a single, predefined identity. I could be a multifaceted individual with a plethora of interests and an ever-evolving appearance.

This realization wasn’t just about existing in shades of black or white; it was about embracing the entire spectrum. It was about acknowledging that I can be many things simultaneously, appreciate a wide array of interests, and even change my outward appearance as frequently as I desire. THEZONKYGIRL represents the acceptance of the vibrant and multifaceted nature of my identity, proving that life isn’t about conforming to a single mold but celebrating the beautiful mosaic of our individuality.

Carmel, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am a creative soul at heart, and my artistic journey finds its primary expression in the world of painting. There’s an innate joy in working with my hands and crafting something beautiful from scratch, whether it’s on a blank canvas or through other artistic endeavors. My love for painting allows me to explore the depths of my imagination and translate emotions into vibrant, visual stories.

Beyond the realm of painting, I’ve discovered another avenue to channel my creative energy – music. The power of music has always held a special place in my heart, inspiring me to venture into the world of DJing. Mixing and blending different sounds, genres, and rhythms is my way of sharing the love I have for music with the world. Through both painting and DJing, I find fulfillment in creating and connecting, bringing a unique blend of colors and beats to life in my own artistic way.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

The COVID-19 pandemic was a pivotal moment that reshaped not just my life, but the lives of countless individuals around the world. When the pandemic hit, it forced me, like so many others, to reevaluate many aspects of my life. The profound shift in how we interacted with the world around us demanded a higher level of introspection. The sudden lack of in-person interactions and community made it challenging to connect with people, particularly other artists and those who supported my creative journey. I found myself facing the daunting task of adapting to a new reality where the familiar avenues for collaboration and networking seemed to vanish.

Yet, amidst the difficulties, there were blessings that emerged from this challenging period. I discovered a reservoir of inner strength and resilience that I didn’t know I possessed. The need for adaptability pushed me to explore innovative ways to connect with others and share my art.

Online platforms and virtual communities became a lifeline, enabling me to bridge the physical gap and connect with a broader audience. In this time of solitude and reflection, I also deepened my creative process. The isolation allowed me to delve into my art with a newfound intensity and authenticity. I harnessed the emotions and experiences of the pandemic to create work that resonated with others on a profoundly human level.

While COVID-19 brought its share of challenges, it also opened doors to growth and creativity.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is the profound sense of self-expression that it offers. Through my art, I have a unique and powerful channel to convey my innermost thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It’s a liberating journey of sharing my soul with the world.

To me, art also serves as a remarkable emotional release, a therapeutic outlet that allows me to pour my joys and sorrows onto the canvas or into my creative work. It’s like a cathartic dance of colors and emotions, helping me navigate the ups and downs of life with grace and resilience.

Being an artist connects me with others on a deeply profound level as well. It’s incredible to witness how my creations resonate with people, forging connections that transcend words. Art becomes a universal language that bridges the gaps between individuals and cultures, sparking conversations and understanding.

Above all, being an artist is not just a choice; it’s a lifelong passion. It’s a love story with creativity that only grows stronger with time. It brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment that permeates every aspect of my life, and I’m endlessly grateful for the ability to nurture this love for art and creativity.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.tzgworld.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/thezonkygirl
• Twitter: www.x.com/thezonkygirl
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiG4ATwj7YnaT6LLB24ZDhQ

Image Credits
Carmel Katumba.