Joseph Madisia was born in Namibia. He enrolled for his Bachelor degree at the University of Namibia in Windhoek, and took many tours to India, Switzerland and Germany during his years of study. He received the Standard Bank Award of Distinction from the National Gallery of Namibia in 1991 and the Behnsen Trust Award to assist with his university studies in 1997.

Madisia has exhibited at the National Art Gallery of Namibia in Windhoek and at the 21st International Print Biennale in Ljubljana, Slovenia. In 1997, he participated in a group exhibition titled ‘Ondambo’ as part of the International African Artists’ Workshop at the National Art Gallery of Namibia. His artworks are presented in several permanent collections, including Namibia’s Commercial Bank and Reserve Bank collections, as well as abroad.