Ssegujja Godfrey

“Art is not just a reflection of life — it is the lens through which I understand it. Every canvas, every brushstroke, is a piece of the journey that brought me here.”

Biography

I'm Godfrey Ssegujja, an artist born and based right here in Kampala, Uganda.

My artistic practice centers on using acrylic on barkcloth, a unique pairing that connects modern artistic media with a deeply traditional Ugandan material.

My work is essentially a visual exploration of the social, cultural, and economic aspects of Uganda. I strive to be a storyteller, weaving narratives that bridge past experiences with the realities of modern life. Whether it’s an inherited tradition or a contemporary challenge, I aim to capture the full spectrum of our Ugandan experience.

My journey in art is formally grounded by a Diploma of Art in Education from Kyambogo University. I've been fortunate to share my perspective through my art, participating in both solo and group exhibitions across East Africa.

Artist's Statement

My artistic journey began in childhood, shaped by my mother’s creative influence. With an artistic background, she crafted beautiful home décor both for sale and our own use, and taught me many of these skills like weaving and sketching. Growing up, I also found inspiration in the act of repurposing materials like tyres, wires, and other discarded objects, which I used to make toy cars and other playthings. This early exposure to resourcefulness and creativity instilled in me a deep appreciation for materials, textures, and the power of storytelling, themes that now define my work.

As a Ugandan artist, living in a land filled with diversity and vibrancy, my work draws inspiration from the social, cultural, and economic aspects of ordinary people. I explore how these elements shape everyday lives, celebrating their resilience, values, and traditions. Working in a semi-abstract style, I use acrylic on canvas to capture the energy and interconnectedness of these stories, layering textures and colors to reflect the richness of my subjects.

Through my work, I seek to honor the human experience, shedding light on the beauty and complexity of life in Uganda. My paintings aim to spark dialogue, encouraging viewers to connect with the narratives of people whose stories often go untold. Each piece represents not just a visual exploration, but also a tribute to the shared experiences that unite us in our humanity.

Artistic Mission

My mission is to create work that resonates beyond the surface — to reveal fragments of memory, identity, and shared humanity. Every brushstroke carries with it a story: of where we come from, what we value, and how we dream of the future.

I believe art should not just be seen, but felt. It should echo within the soul, stirring emotions that words cannot reach. Each piece I create is intended as a dialogue between myself, the subject, and the viewer — a conversation that lingers long after one has left the canvas behind.

At the heart of my work lies a commitment to truth, to beauty, and to the preservation of cultural memory. I seek to honor traditions such as painting on Lubugo (barkcloth), a UNESCO-gazetted heritage material, while also pushing its boundaries into new expressions. In doing so, I aim to bridge the past and the present, offering art that is both timeless and urgently relevant.

My mission is not only to create, but to inspire — to remind us of the connections we share with one another, with our ancestors, and with the living world we are called to protect.

Working with Lubugo (Barkcloth)

At the heart of my practice is lubugo, a traditional barkcloth made from the fig tree (ficus natalensis) — a craft recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Lubugo is more than a material; it is a living history. By painting on it, I weave contemporary expression into a fabric of heritage — allowing modern themes of identity, resilience, and belonging to live within a medium that is both fragile and eternal.

Learn More About This Fabric

Programs & Outreach

Outside the studio, my work extends into the community. I believe creativity is a right, not a privilege — and I dedicate part of my practice to sharing art with those who may not have access to it.

Notable initiatives include:

Free art workshops for children in Uganda and beyond.
Collaborating with schools and NGOs for art therapy programs.
Learn More