In the world of graphic design, Dinholazo, also known as Teofilus Adolf, has carved out a niche for himself that’s hard to ignore.
Hailing from Ondangwa, Namibia, Dinholazo has grown from a young, passionate artist to a highly sought-after graphic designer.
Dinholazo tells us his journey into graphic design began during his primary school days. He says he was that kid who always had a sketchbook in hand, eagerly participating in drawing competitions, and his love for art was evident from the start.
As he transitioned into his teenage years, Dinholazo recalls his artistic talents evolving with the times, leading him into the world of digital art and graphic design.
Little did he know that this childhood passion would eventually become his life’s calling, and now he is ready to share what he has learnt along the way with a comprehensive graphic design masterclass on 14 October.
If you’ve been around long enough, you’ve most likely seen his work. He is the steady hand behind the visual storytelling of many major events, festivals and nightspots. His regular clientele includes brands like King Tee Dee, BeFree Namibia, Jäegermeister, Namibia Wildlife Resorts, the United Nations Development Programme Namibia and others.
He tells us he is inspired by a need for excellence.
“I like to put myself in the shoes of a client and ask myself: ‘If I were on the receiving end of this artwork, would I be blown away?’ That is what drives me to craft fitting ideas to the projects I take on. Other times I just show off a little bit of the super design skills I possess.”
This willingness to experiment is what keeps him at the forefront of the industry.
In recent years it has become obvious that he sets the design trends in Namibian entertainment, as many of the aesthetics he pioneers and popularises are very soon replicated by countless others.
If you ever find yourself asking why so many clubs share a similar look, this is why.
Dinholazo’s influence on other designers is undeniable, but he tells us that it is a bittersweet feeling.
“I feel like many other designers look up to me and are inspired by my work and they dub me ‘the best’, but I honestly believe their original ideas could be great as well. I believe variety would help grow the creative industry.”
He feels so strongly about this that he has begun imparting his knowledge onto others, so that they too can learn to find their own voice and art style.
He tells us his upcoming masterclass is more than just a platform to share design techniques, it’s an opportunity to mentor the next generation of creative minds by sharing high-end design hacks, tips and pointers to foster growth in his industry. It is a session for those who are already seasoned graphic designers who want to fine-tune skills.
Dinholazo’s journey is not just about success, it’s an invitation to embrace your inner artist and dare to dream.
As he takes on the role of mentor, he leaves us with a valuable lesson – that on the vast canvas of life, we all have the power to paint our own unique masterpiece.
- Anne Hambuda is a poet, writer and commentator. Follow her online or email her at [email protected] for more.
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