Munza Dhlimi

Born in Nigeria

Technique / Inspiration

My name is Munza Dhlimi Samaila. I was born of Bauchi parentage. I studied Fine Arts at the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, specialising in painting. I have been practising art since graduating in 2008. I think artists are made more than they are born. I will discuss this through the lines of talent and hard work. As Vladislav Rastorotsky once said: “talent alone is not enough.” I believe a really good artist is 10 percent talent and inspiration, and 90 per cent perspiration and hard work! The great Pablo Picasso famously said that “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist when we grow up.” I think Picasso meant that kids usually arrive at a point when the confidence they have in their ability to draw or create dwindles. At this stage, the joy of creating can become a frustrating endeavour as the desire to reach a perceived standard bumps up against skill limits. If artistic growth is not fostered, that spark can be extinguished in a child. With the above sentiment, the artist is ‘made’ through persistent learning, practise, and growth. That notwithstanding, there are individuals born gifted with a high level of artistic talent and ability. In the same vein, a person without any prior creative talent can, with training and dedicated practise, master the art of creating. I seek inspiration from travelling and exploring new places. It inspires me to see, taste, and try new things. Not only does that challenge me to adapt to new experiences, but also to engage with different people and embrace adventures and new ideas as they come. Listening to good music can also be very inspiring. I enjoy listening to both African and western folk music, jazz, indie hip hop, and alternative rock.

Artist Statement

Munza Dhlimi Samaila’s practice is shaped by discipline as much as inspiration, grounded in the belief that artistry is built through continuous learning and persistence. Drawing from travel, music, and lived experiences, his work reflects an evolving dialogue between culture, exploration, and the pursuit of growth.

Munza Dhlimi

Born in Nigeria

Technique / Inspiration

My name is Munza Dhlimi Samaila. I was born of Bauchi parentage. I studied Fine Arts at the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, specialising in painting. I have been practising art since graduating in 2008. I think artists are made more than they are born. I will discuss this through the lines of talent and hard work. As Vladislav Rastorotsky once said: “talent alone is not enough.” I believe a really good artist is 10 percent talent and inspiration, and 90 per cent perspiration and hard work! The great Pablo Picasso famously said that “Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist when we grow up.” I think Picasso meant that kids usually arrive at a point when the confidence they have in their ability to draw or create dwindles. At this stage, the joy of creating can become a frustrating endeavour as the desire to reach a perceived standard bumps up against skill limits. If artistic growth is not fostered, that spark can be extinguished in a child. With the above sentiment, the artist is ‘made’ through persistent learning, practise, and growth. That notwithstanding, there are individuals born gifted with a high level of artistic talent and ability. In the same vein, a person without any prior creative talent can, with training and dedicated practise, master the art of creating. I seek inspiration from travelling and exploring new places. It inspires me to see, taste, and try new things. Not only does that challenge me to adapt to new experiences, but also to engage with different people and embrace adventures and new ideas as they come. Listening to good music can also be very inspiring. I enjoy listening to both African and western folk music, jazz, indie hip hop, and alternative rock.

Artist Statement

Munza Dhlimi Samaila’s practice is shaped by discipline as much as inspiration, grounded in the belief that artistry is built through continuous learning and persistence. Drawing from travel, music, and lived experiences, his work reflects an evolving dialogue between culture, exploration, and the pursuit of growth.

GALLERY