An Interview With Black Rose The Artist

When did you first start drawing cartoons professionally?

I first started drawing professionally I'd say in 2014, but started doing editorial/current affairs cartoons in 2016.

Did you always know you wanted to be an artist?

I think I did. For a long time I wanted to tell stories visually. Either illustration or animation. (And last year I started teaching myself illustration too).

Where do you get your inspiration from?

I think I get my inspiration from the world around me. If you look hard enough there is art everywhere. I suppose it's God's artwork.

What are the three biggest opportunities for Zambia in 2020?

For me, I believe I'm excited about broadening my work to animation while continuing illustration. For other artists I think there are a lot of growing opportunities in the creative field if you are willing to look hard enough

What are the three biggest challenges facing Zambia in 2020?

Wow..I think corruption is number one. Lack of people in government who truly care for the people. There may be a few, but we need far more. Also an attitude of people too willing to accept the status quo

We want to congratulate you on your recent engagement, what exciting news, when and where do you and your fiancée plan to be married?

Thank you very much. we are still yet to confirm actual dates and locations. But this year for sure!

What tips do you have for aspiring artists?

I think as an artist you really have to want to be one. You have to first decide for yourself that you don't see yourself doing anything that doesn't have art attached to it. Because it gets hard. The art industry is still a growing one and you will need that extra conviction to pull you through.

Finally, is there anything else you'd like to say to the readers of Open Zambia?

Firstly to Open Zambia I'd like to say thank you. Open Zambia has been my longest and consistent client to date. I'm really thankful and also to those who have known me through open Zambia, thank you. The likes, the comments are an encouragement.