Cinga Samson Artist | Life is Art

“I start with the conversation, which leads to the painting. And sometimes even without me consciously thinking, it feels as if the painting is carrying on that conversation.”

Cinga Samson is a South African artist renowned for his captivating figurative paintings, which often feature large-scale group scenes and self-portraits. Born in 1986 in Cape Town, Samson’s work is distinguished by its dark palette, figures with pupil-less eyes, and formal, ceremonious poses.

Cinga’s artistic journey is deeply rooted in his experiences growing up between the Eastern Cape and Cape Town, reflecting themes of identity, community, and the complexities of human existence.

Early life and Education

Samson was born in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, but spent much of his early life moving between the Eastern Cape and Cape Town. This dynamic upbringing influenced his perspective on life and art, as he navigated different environments and cultural contexts. After completing high school in eThembeni, a rural area in the Eastern Cape, Samson returned to Cape Town and joined the Isibane Creative Arts studio, where he worked alongside artists Gerald Tabata, Xolile Mtakatya, and Luthando Laphuwano. This studio became a pivotal space for his artistic development, introducing him to oil painting and fostering his unique style.

Samson attended the Stellenbosch Academy of Design and Photography, where he studied commercial photography. This experience not only honed his compositional skills but also heightened his awareness of racial and socioeconomic disparities in South Africa, themes that would later permeate his work.

Artistic Style and Themes

Cinga’s artistic practice is characterized by its blend of traditional painting techniques with contemporary themes. His figures, often modeled after himself, are depicted without pupils, creating an enigmatic and introspective atmosphere. This stylistic choice allows the viewer to question whether the subjects are aware of their surroundings or not, adding a layer of mystery to his compositions.

Samson’s work frequently incorporates elements of nature, such as plants and landscapes, juxtaposed with urban settings and luxury brands. These contrasts reflect the complexities of modern life, where traditional and contemporary, natural and artificial, coexist. His paintings are not just portraits but narratives that explore identity, community, and the human condition.

Exhibitions and Recognition

Samson has gained international recognition with solo exhibitions in prominent galleries such as White Cube in London, Perrotin in New York, and blank projects in Cape Town. His work has been featured in group shows across the globe, including Amsterdam, Berlin, Minneapolis, and Mexico. Notable exhibitions include Iyabanda Intsimbi / The metal is cold at The FLAG Art Foundation in New York and Ukhe Nje Wasondela, Ndakuphosa Kulo Mlambo at the Norval Foundation in Cape Town.

In 2017, Samson received the prestigious Tollman Award for the Visual Arts, further solidifying his position as a leading figure in contemporary South African art.

Legacy and Impact

Cinga’s art is not only a reflection of his personal journey but also a tribute to his community and the broader African diaspora. His paintings honor the complexities and resilience of African identity, challenging viewers to engage with themes of violence, spirituality, and the search for meaning. Through his work, Samson continues to push the boundaries of figurative painting, leaving a lasting impact on the global art scene.

Current Work and Residences

Cinga currently resides in Cape Town, where he continues to produce works that explore existential questions and the human experience. His recent exhibitions showcase his mastery of oil painting, blending the surreal with the mundane to create a unique visual language.

Cinga is represented by White Cube internationally.