Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, [email protected]
Last week, visual art lovers converged at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe (NGZ) in Bulawayo for the “Vital Voices: Accelerate Action” all-female exhibition.
To celebrate feminine excellence in the visual art space, the NGZ in Bulawayo hosted this event, showcasing numerous art pieces echoing voices for change.
In her curatorial statement, Doris Kamupira, assistant curator of the NGZ in Bulawayo, articulated the essence of the exhibition.
“The ‘Vital Voices: Accelerate Action’ is a substantial exhibition commemorating International Women’s Day, featuring 26 visionary female artists from diverse career stages and artistic disciplines. This dynamic exhibition comprises paintings, drawings, design motifs, mixed media, and three-dimensional art, culminating in a powerful exploration of women’s empowerment.
“Through their works, these artists serve as catalysts for social change, amplifying the voices of the marginalised and challenging the systemic barriers that perpetuate gender inequality,” read part of the statement.
According to Kamupira, the exhibition is a call to action, urging swift and decisive steps toward achieving gender parity.
“The artists’ works serve as a powerful call to action. Alison Baker’s pieces inspire women to find the courage and strength to break free from societal constraints,” Kamupira said.
She highlighted that Kafiya Eyvazova’s work, particularly her thought-provoking piece, “I Want Seven Sons and One Daughter,” challenges societal values and sheds light on the struggles faced by women in patriarchal societies, where the inability to bear a male child can lead to devastating consequences.
Similarly, Sidanisile Dube’s “Dlala Mama” celebrates the importance of self-care and living in the present, highlighting the need for women to prioritise their well-being and happiness.
Chronicle Showbiz observed as art lovers admired the various artworks on display on Friday.
In separate interviews, visual artists shared their thoughts on the exhibition and Women’s History Month. Mavies Ndhlovu, a ceramicist from Gwanda, said her work was inspired by the artistry of Matobo women, who elevated hut painting into a broader form of artistic expression. One of her pieces, “Sesilapha”, depicts “how Matobo women started by painting their huts in rural areas, but now their work is seen in urban spaces and even on fabrics. They inspire me a lot.”
Nomathemba Dube, who drew a piece titled “Free to Be”, said the exhibition provided her with a platform to step out of her shell and embrace her true self.
Luzibo “Luchi Shiki” Moyo, daughter of Bulawayo-based imbube ensemble Black Umfolosi’s founding member Sotja Moyo, said her journey into visual arts was inspired by a woman who painted portraits at Meikles store back in the day.
“Growing up, I was surrounded by musicians, which is why I’m also a musician and dancer. However, my journey into visual art was sparked by a woman — I don’t know her name — who painted portraits at Meikles. I would watch and admire her work. Then, when I attended Founders High School, I chose art as one of my practical subjects, and I have never looked back.
“To me, Women’s History Month should celebrate humanity as a whole, not just women. Of course, women play a huge role in people’s lives from birth and beyond, so they should be celebrated daily,” she said.
Other participating artists included Lauryn Arnott, Abigail N Hunda, Arzu Jabrailova, Langelihle B Moyo, Gloria JC Schonegeuel, Thokozile Dube, Andiswa Matobo, Nomvuyiso M Mpofu, Alison Baker, Portia Ndlovu, Valiyeva Yasemen, Clementine VT Nyati, Kafiya Eyvazova, Zandile V Masuku, Fidan Nazim Qizi, Lethiwe Ndebele, Kimberley Bumhira, Florence Nyathi, Nubar Rafiyeva, Tendai Mandira, Portia Ndlovu, Nomathemba Ndlovu, Lakhina Zulu, and Sidanisile Dube. – Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu
