ZACH ZONO
WORDS BY ANDREA BELLOCQ
For Zono art is a meditation on memory’s sensations, shaped by his internal experiences. His intuitive approach captures these lived moments on canvas, resulting in complex and distinctive compositions. Each piece serves as a map of his mind, blending abstraction with figurative and landscape forms, and echoing his South African roots through vivid hues and organic shapes. When painting, he makes quick, instinctive decisions, allowing past works to inform future creations. His large-scale artworks invite viewers to immerse themselves, offering a unique, experiential reflection on presence and continuity.
Your paintings are described as meditations on memory and existence. Can you elaborate on how your internal experiences inform your artistic process?
My paintings serve as reflections of my internal landscape, capturing the essence of memory and existence through a harmonious interplay of colour and form. Drawing inspiration from my lived experiences, I seek to translate my emotions onto the canvas, infusing each brushstroke with the spontaneity of the moment. By blending vibrant hues with intimate gestures, I hope my works become vivid testaments to the depth of human experience, inviting viewers to embark on a journey of self-discovery and contemplation.
How does your background growing up in Cape Town influence the themes and aesthetics of your paintings? I’m very fortunate to have grown up in Cape Town, surrounded by stunning landscapes. It’s quite a change from my current life in London - not that London is not beautiful - but it’s definitely a stark contrast to my home in South Africa. I often think my artwork reflects my memories of the vibrant nature back home that I grew up with, almost like remembering fragments of that part of my life.
Can you discuss your intuitive approach to painting and how it allows you to translate your lived experiences onto the canvas?
Finishing a painting can be a long process. Some days, everything falls into place effortlessly – colours harmonise, forms align, and the composition finds its balance. Other days, it can feel like a wrestling match, with each brushstroke met by resistance. Yet, it’s this unpredictability that fuels my practice. The challenge keeps me engaged, pushing me to embrace the unknown. I find excitement in the ever-changing nature of my creative process, knowing that each day brings new discoveries and opportunities for growth.
“This Does Not Work, Move It To The Side Please”
Your paintings are often described as complex and distinctive compositions. Could you walk us through your process of layering and texturing to achieve this depth?
My process is deeply intertwined with my personal journey and emotions. Initially, I had to resist the impulse to meticulously plan each brushstroke. Over the years I’ve learnt to trust my instincts and allow my creative process to evolve naturally. I’ve discovered that I thrive when working on multiple paintings simultaneously.
Each canvas becomes part of a larger conversation in my studio. I constantly shift them around, exploring different perspectives and relationships between the works. I’ve found that this dynamic approach helps me better connect with each piece.
How do you balance the fluidity of ideas and feelings in your paintings with the structured composition necessary for creating cohesive works of art?
It’s important for me to not get stuck on an idea - I find that keeping an open mindset is crucial, but that is always easier said then done. Ultimately, it’s about finding harmony between intuition and intention, allowing each to inform and complement the other. By embracing both the fluidity of creative expression and the discipline of composition, I strive to create works that experiment with different elements and perspectives.
Your work is said to capture moments in time rather than chronicling events. Can you discuss how you achieve this sense of temporality in your paintings? In my paintings, I try to capture a sense of temporality by weaving together past experiences with future aspirations, crafting narratives that I feel challenge the constraints of linear time. Rather than presenting a mere chronological timeline of my life, I treat each piece as a reflection of my internal world.
What role do organic forms and vivid hues play in your paintings, and how do they contribute to the overall atmosphere of your work?
They serve as the cornerstone of my artistic expression, imbuing each piece with a distinct atmosphere and emotional resonance. Colour allows me to communicate moods and narratives with depth. I view my paintings as vessels of memory, where every hue and form is painted to reflect a piece of myself. As for the organic forms that populate my paintings, they emerge organically during the creative process, almost as if they have a life of their own. It’s a collaborative dance between myself and the canvas, where the painting guides me as much as I guide it.
How do you see your paintings as reflecting or documenting the passage of time in your life?
I sense that I am still in the early stages of my career, with still so much that I want to explore and hope to accomplish. As of now, I view my paintings as a kind of visual diary, they are not merely static images but rather evolving narratives, documenting my ongoing journey.
Your large-scale works are described as mediums for experimentation. What types of experimentation do you engage in, and how does this contribute to the immersive experience of your art?
The expansive canvas invites a dance of spontaneity and discovery, where even my mistakes transform into elements I enjoy acknowledging. I eagerly embrace the daunting expanse of a large blank canvas, the endeavour to convey on such a scale compels me to reassess my techniques and forms, rendering my emotions vulnerable, in the hopes of fostering an immersive experience.
What do you hope viewers experience or take away from encountering your paintings in person?
I aspire for viewers of my artwork to pause and find solace in the moment.
How do you navigate the balance between abstraction and representation in your paintings?
In my recent works, I’ve tried to explore finding a balance between abstraction and representation. Within the abstract layers, I’ve subtly embedded elements of figuration—perhaps a tree or flowers— creating an intriguing interplay. While the overall composition embraces abstraction, these hidden representations add a layer of familiarity and intrigue.
Could you discuss any upcoming exhibitions or projects that readers can look forward to experiencing your work in?
Certainly! There is a few in the works, But what I can share is that I’m thrilled to have an upcoming exhibition in Beijing this September. It’s an exciting opportunity to showcase my work in a new setting and connect with a new audience.
How has your experience living in London influenced your artistic practice, if at all?
My artistic journey has been significantly shaped by my time in London. It’s been a city of immense growth and transformation for me, from navigating odd jobs to taking the chance to establish myself as an artist. London has been a witness to my evolution so far, and will always be a pivotal chapter in my journey as an artist.
Left to right “Give Me A Chance” | “Till They Speak”
Finally, what legacy do you hope to leave through your contributions to the art world, and what aspirations do you have for your future as an artist?
My aspiration is to be remembered as someone who remained authentic to themselves and their art, continuing to paint and embrace new opportunities as I age. Above all though, I prioritise being remembered as a kind person; if that’s what I leave behind, I’ll consider it a success!