Malawian-born artist Nisty Chatha began his creative journey in the simple joy of drawing alongside friends in primary school. What started as playful sketches became a life’s calling when he saw a friend making a living through art. He realised his gift could be his voice—a way to portray the world in all its beauty, complexity, and resilience.

Entirely self-taught through books, tutorials, and countless hours of practice, Nisty draws inspiration from people—their daily rhythms, cultures, and surroundings. His work celebrates the positive spirit of Africa, a place where joy often walks hand in hand with struggle, and where even a smile can carry unspoken depths.

At the heart of his work lies a profound question: Why are we here? Many of his paintings depict multiple figures within a single body, symbolising that we are not isolated beings but part of a greater collective. These figures climb—financially, physically, and emotionally—towards the “mind,” representing validation, acceptance, and higher purpose.

Faces, to Nisty, are mirrors of the soul. Each character he paints carries the same message: keep going, no matter the challenge. Using a palette knife for its texture and spontaneity, he ensures each piece remains alive, layered, and unconfined by any single medium.

Today, his paintings live with collectors across Africa, Australia, the USA, and Europe. His work has been showcased at the Turbine Art Fair, Joburg Open Studios (2022, 2023), and LAE Group exhibitions, including Hierarchy of Being (2023), LA FEMME (2021), and Lockdown (2020).

A Nisty Chatha artwork is more than a visual statement—it is an invitation to connect, reflect, and recognise our shared humanity.