Petros Mwenga Zimbabwean, b. 1985

Early Life and Education:

• Birth: Petros Mwenga was born in Harare, Zimbabwe, in 1985.
• Education: He pursued his passion for art by studying Fine Art at the Peter Birch School of Art in Harare from 2006 to 2007. Following this, he furthered his skills at the Zimbabwe National Arts Gallery of Visual Art Studios from 2007 to 2008.

• Early Career: Mwenga's work began to gain recognition for its colorful portrayal of everyday city life in Zimbabwe. His training at prestigious institutions laid a strong foundation for his artistic style, which combines elements of traditional Zimbabwean culture with modern expressions.

• Artistic Style: Mwenga's paintings are known for their vibrant colors and dynamic depiction of urban and social scenarios. His art often reflects the joy, struggles, and daily activities of people, capturing the essence of contemporary Zimbabwean life.
• Medium: He primarily works with acrylic on canvas, allowing for bold expressions through color and form.

• Exhibitions: Mwenga has participated in numerous group and solo exhibitions both locally and internationally:
  • He has been part of prestigious international group exhibitions, including "A New Generation of Printmakers" at the SA Voice Exhibition in Washington, "Between the Shadow & the Light" in the USA, "Art Santa EF" in New Mexico, and the "Affordable Art Fair" in New York.
  • Locally, he has had both solo shows and featured in curated group exhibitions, showcasing his work across South Africa, where he currently resides and works from August House Studios in Johannesburg.
• Awards: His talent has been recognized with several accolades:
  • In 2004, he won 1st prize in a UN competition titled "Wanted Lakes Rivers Dead or Alive".
  • In 2008, he received a 1st merit award for "Strength and Complexity" in a national competition.
  • Further awards came in 2011 with the 1st prize and best in show at the 8th Black Like Us Exhibition, alongside a viewer's choice award at the same event.
  • In 2017, he was awarded the best painting at the Wild Geese Art Festival.

• Mwenga's works are part of several notable collections, including the Deutsche Bank Collection SA and the ANC Collection SA, indicating his impact not only in Zimbabwe but across the continent.

• As of 2025, Petros Mwenga continues to be a prominent figure in the Johannesburg art scene, still producing art that resonates with themes of social life and human interaction. His paintings, such as "Dancing for the Rain" and "It's About Time," offer commentary on contemporary issues while celebrating the spirit of the people.

• Mwenga has expressed that social life is a significant source of inspiration for him. His works often explore the nuances of human behavior and societal change, particularly in Zimbabwe and South Africa.

• Petros Mwenga's legacy lies in his ability to translate the complexities of urban life into art that is both accessible and profound, making him an essential figure in the narrative of modern African art. His commitment to his craft and his community through art continues to influence both emerging and established artists in the region.