Flooded, 2008
Mongezi Gum, born on September 23, 1970, in Langa, Cape Town, is a renowned South African township artist known for his work in painting. His passion for art began at a young age, leading him to move to Johannesburg to further his education. There, he studied drawing, sculpture, and printmaking at the Johannesburg Art Foundation, from which he earned his Diploma in Fine Arts in 1994. After completing his studies, Gum returned to Cape Town to pursue his artistic career, working from Greatmore Studios in Woodstock.
Gum's art often reflects a blend of traditional African elements and contemporary township life, capturing the vibrant energy of South African communities. His paintings are characterized by bold, confident brushstrokes, vivid colors, and easily recognizable imagery that depict everyday scenes from the townships, including shacks, churchgoers, and musicians. His work has been exhibited in numerous galleries, including the South African National Gallery, Artscape, AVA, Everard Read, and Roots Art Gallery.
Beyond his artistic endeavors, Gum is deeply involved in community projects in Langa, contributing to initiatives like the "Ubuntu Youth Development" project aimed at reducing crime and educating youth. His commitment to his community is also evident in his mural work, notably at places like the Oprah Winfrey Leadership School for Girls and various local spots in Langa.
His art is held in several corporate and private collections both within South Africa and internationally, including in Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States.