Introducing Musonda Kabwe, An Illustrator from Johannesburg
Musonda Kabwe, born in Kitwe, Zambia, and based in Johannesburg, South Africa, has been passionate about art since childhood. His work blends bold colours and linework. In this Q&A, he shares insights on his creative journey, a standout collaboration with Shutterstock, and how meditation is a huge inspiration to his artistic process. From personal projects like Music Monday to his dream of seeing his art on architectural landmarks, Musonda offers a glimpse into his evolving world of illustration.
What would you say is your best piece of work / collaboration to date, and why?
My favourite project was with Shutterstock, where I created 100 illustrations. What I loved most about the project was having six months to complete it. This gave me the opportunity to explore new ways of creating and to push my style into new territories. Another great aspect of the project was the valuable insights they shared about what’s in demand in the illustration market.
Where do you like to go to be inspired, or how do you find your inspiration?
I love taking long walks while listening to audiobooks and Dharma talks. I’m also deeply inspired by high-energy spaces like bustling cafés. Retail spaces energise me—I love observing how people dress and express themselves. I also enjoy putting on my best outfit, getting a fresh haircut, and heading out on solo dates with my sketchbook. Every opportunity to change environments feels inspiring to me.
Is there anything you'd say you would be a good advocate for? Please elaborate if so.
Meditation is a big part of my life. Last year, I completed a 12-week meditation teacher training with The Three Jewels, based in New York. During the training, I hosted weekly sessions where I shared the various types of meditation I learned. Meditation is essentially a way to build new thinking habits through repetition, and a solid practice can be a game changer for creativity.
Imagine a life without creative blocks—it’s possible. I’m hoping to start offering more classes in the near future.
What would you say sets you apart from other illustrators? Something you feel is unique to you.
The fact that I'm also a certified meditation teacher.
If you have done paid commissions prior to joining the agency, what would you say is something that clients repeatedly come to you for (up to now)?
Clients often ask me to create work connected to my city, country, or continent. My geographic location plays a significant role in my work. I frequently help clients connect with an African audience, bridging cultural perspectives and ensuring their message resonates.
How would you describe your style?
My work is a contemporary take on traditional art. While deeply rooted in Africa, it branches out, drawing inspiration from surrealism, cartoons, anime, abstract expressionism, pop art, and more. My style is complex and constantly evolving, but one unifying element is my use of line and colour.
Please give a scenario of a project that would mean the world to you, if you were offered it - something that connects to something meaningful to you.
I’m a big fan of Zaha Hadid’s Morpheus Hotel in Macau, especially for her use of geometric lines on the building’s façade. I would love to see my work adorn the façade of an iconic building in a similar style one day. This idea is particularly meaningful to me because of my love for architecture. Before discovering the wonderful world of illustration, architecture was a field I was deeply passionate about.
Are you working on any personal projects you can share with us?
Yes, I’ve been working on a project called Music Monday, where I draw a musician every Monday.
It’s been a rewarding experience, and these are some of my favourite drawings from the series.
Finally, if you were to illustrate a book related to a real life person, who would that be?
Probably my mum - she’s had a huge influence on me. Working on the book would be a wonderful opportunity to grow even closer to her.
If you’d like more info, please contact: [email protected]
At illo agency, we pride ourselves in representing a collation of global illustrators, distinctly diverse in creativity and uniquely celebrated by like-minded clients across a range of commercial markets.