Jean Paul Mugisha, a self-taught pyrography artist is working on his solo exhibition dubbed ‘Clarity,’ where each piece serves as a mirror reflecting the complexities of human existence. Scheduled for June 5, at Centre Culturel Français, Kimuhurura, the exhibition delves into themes of social values, love, resilience and pain. Born in Rwanda in 1999, Mugisha’s artistic journey began at a young age when he discovered his love for drawing. In nursery school, he enjoyed creating a humorous depiction of a car using simple lines. His artistic journey took a significant turn when he discovered pyrography, the art of wood burning. However, he faced an obstacle when he couldn't afford a pyrography machine but he ingeniously found a way to shape his artistic vision by utilizing a soldering iron as a substitute tool. Initially, Mugisha yearned for the day he could afford a proper pyrography machine, viewing it as a stepping stone to achieving success as an artist. However, over time, he realized that the soldering iron could be his unique medium for self-expression. “Our collection seeks to illuminate the multifaceted nature of the human experience. Through various mediums such as pyrography and installations, ‘Clarity’ invites viewers to confront both the beauty and the challenges inherent in life,” he told The New Times. As the exhibition navigate through moments of joy and sorrow, triumph and adversity, Mugisha emphasized that it is a reminder of the resilience that resides within everyone which is why it also lies as a celebration of the human growth.
