Introducing Justin Mashora & Evans Mundawarara – The Artists Behind the Brush

Meet The Makers: A Canvas of Curiosity

At Curiosity African Boutique, every piece we carry holds a whisper of the hands that shaped it, the hearts that imagined it, and the cultures that birthed it. With our new blog series Meet The Makers, we invite you on a journey beyond the shelves and walls—into the souls of the artists whose stories infuse each creation with spirit and meaning.

In this inaugural edition, we cast our spotlight on two extraordinary painters whose Masonite artworks have captivated the eyes and stirred the hearts of Curiosity’s visitors: Justin Mashora and Evans Mundawarara.

From Pencil to Passion – The World of Justin Mashora

Born in Harare, Zimbabwe, Justin Mashora’s relationship with art began before most children can spell their names. At the age of five, his teacher noticed his natural talent, sparking a lifelong creative fire. Though he never enrolled in a formal art school, Justin’s determination, curiosity, and commitment to his craft became his greatest mentors.

His journey took a pivotal turn in 1995 when he sold his first oil painting at the Amon Shonge Arte Gallery. It was a quiet triumph that spoke volumes—and led to an invitation to become a resident artist. From that point on, art was no longer just a passion; it was a purpose.

Now based in KwaZulu-Natal, Justin has spent years refining his distinctive approach to wildlife painting. Working primarily in oils and acrylics, he captures the majesty of Africa’s animals with an intimacy and reverence that can only come from a deep connection to the natural world. Each piece invites the viewer into a quiet moment—a lion’s still gaze, a bird mid-flight—crafted not just with paint, but with soul.

Of Wire and Wonder – The Art of Evans Mundawarara

Originally from the Mashonaland West Province of Zimbabwe, Evans Mundawarara is a true creative spirit whose art spans both sculpture and painting. His earliest works weren’t displayed in galleries—they were imagined in the dust and dirt of a small mining town, formed from copper wire his father brought home from the plant where he worked.

What began with wire cars and animals soon evolved into a lifelong pursuit of artistic excellence. In 2006, Evans moved to Durban, South Africa, where he turned his talents into a profession. His paintings today are a vibrant fusion of technique and texture, often brought to life with intricate 3D beaded detailing that transforms each canvas into a living story.

Evans doesn’t just paint what he sees—he paints what he feels. His brushstrokes echo the rhythms of Africa, and his use of mixed media adds layers of meaning that dance between tradition and innovation.

Art That Speaks in Colour and Craft

Together, Justin and Evans offer a glimpse into the vast richness of African creativity. Their Masonite paintings—each one unique, each one brimming with character—go beyond visual appeal. They honour memory, culture, environment, and identity. They remind us that art is more than decoration—it’s dialogue.

These paintings are available to view and purchase here. Whether you’re an avid collector, a curious admirer, or someone seeking to connect with African creativity in a meaningful way, we invite you to explore their work and discover the stories behind the brush.

A Call to Makers – Join Our Artist Community

At Curiosity, our shelves are not only filled with beautiful objects—they’re filled with opportunities. We believe in celebrating not just what is made, but who makes it. If you’re an artisan with a vision and a voice, we’d love to hear from you.

Click here to submit your work and become part of our growing artist community—a vibrant collective of makers committed to preserving heritage, empowering youth, and sharing Africa’s stories with the world.

This is just the beginning. The journey ahead is rich with discovery, and we can’t wait to introduce you to more remarkable makers from across the continent.

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