Joseph Banda

Joseph Lajabu Banda was born in Blantyre, Malawi in 1979. His father died when he seven, so the family moved in with his grandparents. His grandfather taught him a love of art and specifically taught him woodcarving.

In school, he was also recognized for his drawing. After graduation he worked as a machine operator, charcoal supplier, and singer in a band, but in 2007, he decided to devote his efforts entirely to art.

He produces wood carvings, postcards, and paintings, using brushes that he makes himself. He even uses toothbrushes.

At first he painted mostly historical Malawian themes but in 2011 he began producing religious art because he himself underwent a religious conversion.