Mural immortalises Martse

Two visual artists Ali Jambo and Blessings Chiumia have created a painting of fallen hip-hop artist Martse.

The gigantic mural has been done in Likuni, Lilongwe where the artist lived. 

Jambo, who trades under Jambo Arts, and Chiuma of Tngo Arts said they collaborated on the painting as a way of honouring and celebrating the life of Martse.

“We are from Likuni and Martse was from Likuni as well. Knowing that he was celebrated by many people we thought it wise that we come up with a wall painting about him so that people can always remember him as they visit the place,” said Chiumia.

Jambo expressed their desire to preserve Martse’s name in a unique way, emphasising the power of visual art to immortalise iconic figures and keep their stories alive.

“There are iconic wall art tributes around the world, paying homage to legendary figures such as Bob Marley, 2 Pac and many others. We thought it would be a good thing to remember him like this,” he said.

Chiumia said paintings serve a statement to the power art possess in preserving the legacies of individuals.

“It is just unfortunate that we don’t have a common place in Malawi where people can visit just to remember the legacies of departed legends through visual arts,” said Chiumia.

Martse died on  May 23 2022 at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Blantyre after sustaining severe injuries from a house fire accident.

Meanwhile, the Martse Foundation is set to host the first ever Martse Memorial Show on May 25 at Civo Stadium in Lilongwe.