From passion to vocation: meeting with Tani Sambiani, Togolese cartoonist
In the still little-explored world of comics in Togo, Tani Sambiani is forging his own path with rare determination. Meet a young artist for whom drawing is much more than a profession: it's a destiny.
A vocation born in childhood
“I’ve been drawing since I was 3 years old. It’s a gift I was born with,” he confides. His father, a great fan of comics brought back from Europe, instilled in him a taste for the ninth art at a very early age. At six, he was already devouring the adventures of superheroes and iconic characters, a universe that would become his playground and his school.
Lomé, a source of inspiration
His Togolese identity is not a backdrop, but rather a character in his work. He has collaborated with local authors, magazines, and Togolese press to create stories rooted in the reality of his country. The Chronicles of Lomé and other ongoing projects feature heroes who walk the streets of the capital, giving voice and image to 100% Togolese stories.
Simple tools, a sure line
Pencil, eraser, and gel pen: these are Tani's lifelong companions. "The pencil and eraser remain my favorites. They're the tools I started with, the ones I grew up with. I'm simply used to them." A simplicity that contrasts with the finesse and complexity of her creations.
Influences from elsewhere
While few African artists have inspired him, Tani acknowledges his debt to the great European, American, and Asian artists. Belgian comics, American comics, and Akira Toriyama's manga have shaped his imagination and honed his style. "They're the ones who shaped me," he humbly admits.
Portraits and Characters: An Intimate Gallery
Among his many creations—comics, illustrations, animated projects—portraits hold a special place in his heart. He has devoted himself to them since 2018 with palpable affection. “I really like portraits. They tell a story, capture a soul.”
The challenge of precariousness
"The biggest challenge here is the precariousness and adaptation." In Togo, he explains, comic book culture is almost nonexistent. The environment is not conducive to the development of artists. "You have to think about making ends meet first. Drawing alone doesn't feed its man."
Making a living from your art: a path strewn with pitfalls
Visibility and communication are his main challenges. "People like what I do, but few know me and dare to order." A frustrating paradox for an artist whose talent only asks to be seen and supported.
A dream: comics and animation
Tani has an ambitious project: to create his own comics and cartoons. To achieve this, he's seeking funding of at least 6,500,000 CFA francs. An investment that would allow him to bring to life stories that have been close to his heart for years.
Advice to the younger generation
To young people who wish to pursue an artistic career, he delivers a straightforward message: "Courage, perseverance and hard work." Values that sum up his own journey.
Where to find out?
For now, you can follow his news and discover his works on his Facebook page Tani Sambiani.
How to support it?
" By purchasing our works, placing commissions, or funding our projects ," he insists. Until his comics are published, commissions and sponsorship remain the best ways to support him.
Throughout his career, Tani Sambiani embodies a new generation of artists determined to bring Togolese comics to life. A major challenge, driven by an unwavering passion.
Djami
