The Fantasy Workshop – D9K Sponsor Spotlight
The next installation of our series of interviews with D9K sponsors. Hanru has agreed to act as a sponsor for District 9000. Welcome aboard Hanru!

Please tell us briefly about your background.
I have been involved in the art world since a young age. In high school, I took it more serious competing in some galleries. After school, the time and effort for art was put on hold due to studies, and now that I am more settled, I have discovered miniature painting, which was in 2020. I have not looked back and enjoyed every moment so much that I have become a commission painter.
What does your company specialise in?
I do commission painting on various levels. I offer anything from table top miniatures to single display figures for collections.
What is the origin story of your company?
During lockdown “feels like a cliché by now”, I had to adjust to the changing times, and started painting miniatures for friends here and there. Eventually I took the plunge and offered the service to others. Having positive feedback and enabling others to enjoy part of the hobby they want to focus on while I do the part I enjoy “painting ofc” I found my passion and place in the gaming community.
Do you play any games? Which are your favourites and why?
I do not play any games. However, I have dear friends who do, and the community is amazing. I would love to get into it at some point.
If you weren’t working at your company, what would you be doing?
I would be a full-time Psychometrist. But thanks to this hobby and community I don’t have to suffer doing that every day!!!!
What would you like to achieve with your company?
I think for every small business owner, it would be to have constant growth. I strive to increase my painting capacity and client base. I have managed to establish returning clients, and this is a core goal for me, as building that portfolio with a client and working on how they enjoy and perceive their miniatures becomes integral to my process.
Which achievement of your company are you proudest of to date?
To be honest, I think every paint job that is fulfilled that achieves the vision of a client is a proud achievement. There is no single achievement that stands out above the rest. In some cases I work on private projects that are very dear to clients, whether they are to other family members or memorabilia, fulfilling those orders bring me immense joy.
What technologies are you currently most excited about, and most worried about? And why?
3D printing has come a long way. Even in the measly 2 years, I have been part of this hobby. Not only adding to bases and making world-building more accessible. But the 8k printers on the market have some serious potential for artists that are not even in the gaming or miniature hobby. Digital art has some of the greatest potentials, and to be able to manifest that a great qualities is magnificent.
Why did you agree to work with the District 9000 event?
I have friends participating in the tournament, and they cannot praise the community enough. All the clients from the infinity side I have worked with have been a blast. I have been at some events and enjoyed them, looking forward to this one!!!
What advice would you give to the 21-year-old version of yourself?
Don’t be limited by what you believe others to expect. Go for your ideas and your visions, someone out there will agree with them and appreciate them as much as you do. The limitation of creativity is a killer.
Are you planning on joining any conventions or events where people can come and meet you?
I would like to attend comic con Africa, and Rage, and the thunder brush competition in Cpt next year.
Where can we see your work and products?
I also paint on twitch from time to time to raise money for less fortunate communities:
How should people get in touch with you?
You can contact me on my Instagram page
or give me a WhatsApp on: 082 686 1670
Any final thoughts?
Great to be part of this event, but more so being part of this community and the hobby. Happy painting and happy gaming.
Wonderful to have you aboard Hanru. Appreciate your willingness to help and invest in our community!