Mufalo Mufalo is FAVA’s Winter 2026 Artist in Residence.
Visit his show, Pleiades, in FAVA’s gallery through March 1, 2026.
Artist statement
My primary focus lies in two-dimensional art, where I explore a variety of subjects and ideas.
However, portraiture remains a consistent theme in my creative practice. In my work, I usually
depict the human body as a manifestation of religious and scientific concepts such as time, glory,
chaos etc. By merging realism with abstract and contemporary elements, I aim to draw viewers
into a space that challenges both perception and thought.
My work also serves as an intimate record of my emotional and psychological landscape,
capturing shifting states of being over time. Lately, I have been fascinated by the intricate
relationship between the human mind, body and spirit—how they evolve, conflict, and reconcile
throughout a person’s life. As I continue to grow, my themes naturally transform, mirroring
changes in my understanding of self and the world around me. Through this ongoing exploration,
I seek to express the invisible and often unspoken aspects of the human experience in a visual
form that resonates emotionally and intellectually with those who encounter my work.
Artist Bio
Mufalo is a Zambian multidisciplinary visual artist currently based in Oberlin, Ohio. His work
spans oil painting and ballpoint pen. Often focused on portraiture, Mufalo's art highlights
everyday African experiences, aiming to reflect the richness of ordinary life and culture. He is
currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Studio Art and Neuroscience at Oberlin College, where
he explores the connection between art and the human mind. Outside of academics, Mufalo leads
OurArt Africa, a nonprofit organization he founded in Zambia. The initiative uses street art to
raise awareness about social and environmental issues in local communities. Driven by a passion
for storytelling, Mufalo aspires to shift the global perception of Africa by using visual art to
amplify authentic African narratives and voices.