P. Muchwa

Paddy Muchwa was a contemporary African artist residing in Somerset West with his wife and three children. He had a great passion for exploring gender, beauty, joy and identity in his work. He’s best known for his beautiful colors in his works on canvas, especially with female figures. Muchwa used to work from his studio in Franschhoek (which had to be closed down due to Covid) and sold his works through KnexT Art Gallery in the Watershed.

Muchwa was born in Kampala, Uganda in 1969 to a family of artists. His mother still paints in Uganda at the age of 62.

“One of my earliest memories involves sitting by my Uncle’s side studio in the garage of our house and watching him draw. I remember thinking: ‘I want to do that, too,’ and I pretty much decided then and there at age 17, that I was an artist just like Uncle.” – Paddy Muchwa.

Paddy Muchwa moved to Cape Town in late 1997 with his family and settled in Simon’s town where he stayed and started and ran a gallery for at least five years before relocating to Stellenbosch where he worked as a Batik African artist for a couple of years. He received a lot of attention in 2007 with his mural; “Masai elders in discussion” and other artworks including: “the beauty of an African woman” and “two brothers walking from school.”

Beginning with “Masai elders in discussion” and “two brothers walking from school,” Muchwa became known for his panoramic silhouettes, usually black figures against a sunset background, which addresses the weather in most parts of Africa.

Muchwa has produced works in Batik form using watercolors, oils and inks. This rendering of mixed media to create animal and human figures is most recognizable as his signature style.

Unfortunately we have recently had to say goodbye to Paddy due to his sudden and unexpected passing from COVID related complications. He lives on forever in our hearts and his art which moved and brought warmth to the hearts of thousands of people.

Rest in peace Paddy 1969 – 2021