Cartoon star Kwezi speaks to a modern generation
College shaped his approach to art, he did not study for the work he is doing until he was long finished school and enrolled for a graphic design diploma.
“Graphic design certainly sharpened my eye to aesthetics, but my career is the result of my passion which spans longer than school.”
Inspired by classical master artists like Da Vinci, Michel-angelo, Rembrandt and Caravaggio, Mkize said comic book greats like Jack Kirby, Alan Moore, and Moebius were also a huge influence.
“The masters, the guys who are in history books, have the biggest effect on me, often because they were able to transcend their abilities.”
According to Mkize, his superhero Kwezi – which means star in Xhosa and Zulu – was inspired by his hip young cousin Siphe Nxasana.
“Kwezi is 19 years old and he is hip and happening – just like Siphe.”
A model and interior designer, 20-year-old Nxasana’s techno savvy and hairstyles are an influence.
“He lives large, just like Kwezi, he walks tall, is loud and likes fashion and girls.”
Explaining how Kwezi is a typical new South African youngster who has immersed himself in popular youth culture, Mkize, however, said he also develops a connection with his traditional roots and learns responsibility as the story unfolds.
Wild Coast landmarks like Hole-in-the-Wall, traditional practices and the country lifestyle feature alongside the big city life that draws most people away from their rural roots to work.
“It is the journey of a young man. He starts off as an arrogant, opinionated anti-hero who discovers and appreciates his superpowers . . . the cultural aspect brings him back to his roots.”
A limited 500 signed hard copy first edition of Kwezi was recently released and it was also posted on social media platforms.
Edition two will hit the shelves next month.
Kwezi’s adventures can be followed at: https://www.facebook.com/Khwezicomicbook — davidm@dispatch.co.za