Artist
Benedicto Mugisa, artistically known as Scar
the artist-benedicto mugisa
Artist Statement
Scar (Benedicto Mugisa), Ugandan artist born in 1996 in Fort Portal, who perfected and developed the banana fiber mosaic art technique.
His work embodies a profound connection to nature and culture, evoking depth, emotion and expressive narratives. Through his art, Scar seeks to transcend the boundaries of conventional art forms, creating intricate and evocative compositions entirely from mosaics of natural banana fibers. Each piece reflects his dedication to honouring the natural heritage of his homeland, while also expressing his desire to create income-generating opportunities within a developing country.
Inspired by the landscapes, people and traditions of Uganda, his creations explore the complexity of human emotion giving voice to internal narratives that resonate on both a personal and universal level. However, his work transcends mere representation of nature. Embedded within each piece are personal stories and emotions, reflecting themes such as love, obsession, solitude, beauty, pride, philosophy and the role of women in society. These layers add depth, making each artwork a visual and emotional journey for the observer.
Artistic background
Benedicto Mugisa's artistic journey was shaped by his father, a natural-born artist who never worked professionally. Growing up, he spent thirteen years at a Catholic boarding school. where he learned to adapt to different environments and survive in a world that felt strange. Amidst the challenges, his love for art remained constant. His childhood obsession with drawing fuelled his creativity, making art his escape and passion. In 2016, after living in Kampala for eight years, Benedicto returned to Fort Portal to focus on perfecting his craft. he began creating mosaic artworks with banana fiber, refining the technique over time. Although his early works were rough, he continued to evolve, making his creations more meticulous and unique.
Living in a developing country with a high unemployment rate and limited opportunities for a stable livelihood, following his passion for art was a life-changing decision. By 2019, faced with financial pressures, Benedicto started teaching workshops, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his career. With clients from different countries and a growing interest in his work, he continued to perfect his technique while supporting his family. In 2023, he held his first exhibition, a milestone in his art career, and continued to push his craft further with each piece he creates and every workshop he leads. For Benedicto, merging passion with profession is a path of patience and perseverance, a life system that nurtures dreams and fosters growth.