My name is Samantha Zandile Ngwenya, a Bournemouth-based artist.

I was born and raised in this picturesque seaside town by my parents, who emigrated from Zimbabwe in the 80s. My Father works as a nurse in London, while my mother has a career in mental health.

As one of the only black girls in my community, I developed a strong work ethic inspired by my parents’ grind for a better life. I embraced the fact I was “different”. I made it my life mission to work the hardest and truly give others something to stare at.

With oil paint as my medium, I bring life to familiar and seemingly mundane settings. My meticulous attention to detail allows me to bring meaning to scenes often overlooked. And a diverse background in art, sports, and music has shaped my unique perspective, which I weave into each piece.

My inspiration comes from the works of Renaissance painters like Edward Hopper, Vilhelm Hammershoi, and contemporary artist George Shaw, who all have a journalistic approach to their paintings. They effortlessly transport you back to moments in history to tell their stories.

I want the work I create to be relatable. To inspire conversation and evoke feelings that transport viewers to a moment in their own lives. All whilst striving to redefine what it means to be a black female artist.