Maria Chiguvari-Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment
CHITUNGWIZA Arts Centre has turned to art to raise awareness of breast cancer with local artist, Simelokuhle Zibengwa, using stone sculptures to highlight the pain, strength and hope of women affected by the disease.
The exhibition, titled “Looking Into the Future,” is being presented in recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The series feature sculptures of female figures with one breast drawing attention to the physical changes associated with breast cancer and the emotional struggles that patients and survivors often face.
Zibengwa said the inspiration behind the work came from the memory of a friend who survived breast cancer but later died from a brain tumour.
Through the sculptures, the artist seeks to encourage greater understanding of the experiences of cancer survivors and the families who lose loved ones to the disease.
One feature of the sculptures is the positioning of one hand against the forehead.
She said the gesture suggests deep thought as the figures appear to reflect on life, illness and the future.
“This deliberate positioning evokes contemplation, introspection, and an orientation towards the future.
“The figures appear absorbed in thought, inviting viewers to consider the uncertainties that accompany illness, the emotional labour of navigating difficult circumstances and the possibility of hope beyond moments of adversity.”
The works explore the uncertainty that comes with illness, while also showing the courage and strength needed to face difficult times.
The exhibition also calls on communities to show greater compassion and support to people undergoing cancer treatment, survivors and families affected by loss.
Zibengwa began her career around 2002 as a “finisher,” washing and polishing finished sculptures for other artists at Charohms Sculptures before carving her own path.
When she joined the stone carving profession, Zimbabwe was in its early years of economic challenges, making the job as a finisher one of the lowest paying roles.
Despite all this, Zibengwe developed a zeal to upgrade her skills to become a professional sculptor.
Zibengwe trained under qualified sculptors and became her own boss at Chitungwiza Arts Centre.
Established in 1997 by the then Ministry of Education Sports and Culture, Chitungwiza Arts Centre provides a platform for artists to showcase their work, access resources and connect with other creatives.
However, for 17 years Zibengwe’s work didn’t win any awards, but she was unshakeable and never lost hope and continued to compete in art competitions.
In 2019, she won her first award from Pathfinder Ubuntu, a non-profit organisation, and scooped the prize again the following year.
She was also the first woman sculptor from Chitungwiza Arts Centre to win the National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA) in 2022.
In 2023 she was the first runner-up for the Zimbabwe European union Exhibition and Competition Culture Month.
