Brian Montshiwa is a Johannesburg-based visual artist whose shy, reserved, and often fearful disposition shapes a quiet yet deeply intentional practice. Frequently hesitant in response, they move through the world with care—an approach that echoes throughout their work. Their practice, rooted in self-writing, indigenous praxis, and identity poetics, spans drawing, installation, performance, printmaking, and text-based painting. Through found objects, gesture, and repetitive labour, Montshiwa constructs layered works that challenge dominant narratives and encourage viewers to “think otherwise.”
Beyond the studio, they have a deep love for music— particularly musical theatre. Recently, they’ve been immersed in Wicked and are eagerly awaiting Part 2
“The experience didn’t start off smoothly, my first night was marked by sleep paralysis, which definitely set a strange tone. However, things improved over time. One of the things I’ve always wanted to learn was how to make paper from organic materials, and I spent the last days of my residency working on that skill and project.
Before coming to Schöppingen, I had no interest in biking, but biking is such a central part of life here. Without this skill, it’s easy to feel a bit stuck. I’m glad I took the time to learn, as it became such an enjoyable part of my experience. Cycling around the area, especially to and around the Schöppingen mountain, especially with the other fellows. It was a great way to explore the region and bond with everyone.“