‘A reflection of my childhood’: Zimbabwean artist Errol Theunissen heads to Dalston for his first ever solo exhibition

Theunissen’s work is inspired by his childhood in Zimbabwe. Image: courtesy the artist and BSMT Space

Zimbabwean artist Errol Theunissen’s first ever solo show is coming to Dalston next month – featuring colourful oil paintings inspired by his African roots.

The exhibition, Chroma, will be on display at BSMT Space gallery on Kingland Road from 7-24 November.

Theunissen is a self-taught painter and illustrator who grew up in Zimbabwe and now lives in Middlesborough.

Expectation by Errol Theunissen. Image: courtesy the artist and BSMT Space

His work is influenced by both his upbringing and his immediate environment, with animals and family appearing often.

“I am fascinated by the simple and honest relationships humans have with animals,” he explained. “These relationships often contain more truth and clarity than our complex human interactions.”

The snapshot-like compositions of his paintings are intended to invite the viewer into intimate moments from his everyday life.

But his signature use of symbols elevates the scenes he portrays and leaves them open to interpretation.

Should we go on by Errol Theunissen. Image: courtesy the artist and BSMT Space

Bold colours are another common thread running through Theunissen’s work.

“The colours I use are a reflection of my childhood in Zimbabwe, where the vibrancy of the land, the clothes, and the people inspired me,” he said.

Theunissen explores universal themes such as community and memory through the lens of his personal experiences in Africa and the UK.

The result is a visual narrative filled with both nostalgia and present-day reflections.

Chroma runs from 7-24 November at BSMT Space on Kingsland Road.

For more information, visit bsmt.co.uk.