Gcina Maduna b.1956, Soweto is a self-taught artist working with pastels and mixed media. After studying engineering draughtsmanship, he shifted to ministry, earning certificates in 2014 and theology diplomas. His spirituality shapes his art.
Music has significantly shaped Maduna’s artistic practice, serving as both inspiration and solace, an influence evident in his treatment of line and colour. From childhood, he recalls his father’s active engagement with singing and performance, with music forming an integral part of their family environment. Motivated by the subtle impact of music, Maduna approaches his jazz portraits with an initial sketch, permitting the imagery to evolve organically, imbued with dynamic energy and movement. The vivid contrasts of colour in his Jazz Series works adeptly convey the essence of musical syncopation, transforming a singular moment into a visual embodiment of melody.
Maduna’s portraiture reveals his keen sensitivity to colour and empathy for his subjects, as seen in depictions of children, women, and elderly individuals. He uses contrasting backgrounds to highlight emotion and tranquillity through direct gazes. His careful technique and material handling strengthen his compositions. In Mmatote (Sanlam Top 100 Portraits 2023), an old woman’s steady gaze and firm mouth convey resilience shaped by hardship, complemented by her self-knitted hat symbolising individuality and courage. Maduna’s Mother inspired a series focusing on dignity, affinity for birds, and endurance, reflecting their strong bond. In Young Woman, an introspective gaze hints at unspoken thoughts. His birdlife artworks showcase his versatility and again highlight his empathy towards living creatures.
His works are held in collections in South Africa, Europe, and the United States.
Let's connect
Please fill out the contact form to contact us.