THE ARTIST
Samuel Lungu is a self-taught hyperrealist and contemporary South African based artist celebrated for his ability to capture the timeless allure of 1920s to 1940s elegance and beyond. His evocative drawings and paintings invite viewers into dimly lit, film noir-inspired worlds where women are depicted in profound moments of deep contemplation and quiet transformation.
Renowned as the 'Master of Ink,' Samuel Lungu has elevated the ballpoint pen into a tool of hyperrealistic brilliance. With unmatched precision and creativity, Samuel's still-life drawings capture intricate detail, transforming everyday objects into mesmerizing works of art. Viewers witness the mastery of ink in person as simple strokes and micro-hatches become vivid, lifelike masterpieces that he refers to as "Vintage Art".
Samuel’s artistic journey began in his youth, sketching book covers that he sold to fellow students during high school. This passion deepened in his teenage years as he immersed himself in studying the techniques of old masters such as Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, and Rembrandt van Rijn. Over time, he reinterpreted their approaches, crafting a distinctive style that combines traditional craftsmanship with a contemporary finish. His works are characterized by extreme realism, intricate details, and a masterful use of chiaroscuro, a Renaissance technique that plays with the dramatic interplay of light and shadow. "The beauty of darkness comes from its ability to highlight the light in an enchanting dance emitted by both elements," Samuel explains.
Beyond the technical brilliance, Samuel’s art delves into profound philosophical themes. He explores the evolution of the human mind and body, often portraying his subjects in states of introspection or metamorphosis. These figures transcend time, becoming allegorical expressions of various concepts—most notably the fragile balance between the physical self and inner being.
Through this lens, Samuel’s work moves beyond the boundaries of traditional hyperrealism. His art is not merely a reproduction of photographic reality but a transformative exploration of light, emotion, and the human spirit. "Truth is what gives a work of art its divine beauty. If I succeed in finding harmony between light and darkness on the canvas, I believe it makes the figure beautifully divine," he reflects.
Each piece radiates glamour, charm, and the captivating essence of a vintage era.
Samuel Lungu’s work invites us to pause, reflect, and connect with the deeper narratives of human existence through the exquisite dance of light and shadow.