Online Reporter
Mthabisi Tshuma, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment
EUNIC Zimbabwe is set to host Harmonies of Expression, a ground-breaking fusion of art, science, and cultural exchange that will culminate in a major exhibition at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Harare on May 10.
The initiative will bring together Zimbabwean creatives and European artistes to explore the emotional and scientific dimensions of climate change, with a focus on the critical issue of water resources.
EUNIC Zimbabwe, a cluster of European embassies and institutes, aims to promote artistic exchange and intercultural understanding between Europe and Zimbabwe while supporting sustainable development through culture.
“This project reflects our commitment to building a dynamic and inclusive cultural landscape. Harmonies of Expression will feature a diverse array of presentations resulting from unique collaborations between Zimbabwean and European creatives,” said project coordinator Arthur Baradzanwa Mataruse.
Participating artistes include photographer and visual storyteller Eveline Gerritsen, socio-economic commentator Kombo Chapfika, eco-social entrepreneur and engineer Alessandra Nicola, environmental activist and craftsman Tichaona Maledadi, vegan chef Chef Cola, dancer and choreographer Soukaina (Marie-Laure EDOM), and designer-educator Ellen Rock. These creatives will work alongside notable collectives such as Fabrik Party, DJ Kolorz, Bantu Spaceship, R&B artist Cherrie, Afro-jazz musician Nasibo, and others.
The event will feature artistic intersections across fashion, culinary arts, dance, music, photography, and sustainable design, each tailored to evoke awareness and provoke discussion on climate change.
“Attendees can expect a powerful mix: culinary arts fused with dance, music performances, furniture crafted from recycled materials, repurposed fashion, and photography merged with mixed media,” said Mataruse.
To extend its reach beyond Harare, the event will also be broadcast in local languages through 14 community radio stations across Zimbabwe, amplifying the message to rural and urban communities alike.
A key component of the day will be a panel discussion on climate change, particularly Zimbabwe’s shifting rain patterns and strained water resources. Experts, artists, and community leaders will share insights on how creativity and science can unite in addressing environmental challenges.
“Harmonies of Expression is more than an art exhibition, it’s a call to action. By uniting artists from diverse backgrounds, we aim to forge lasting partnerships and inspire Zimbabweans to confront climate issues in bold, innovative ways,” Mataruse said.
The event is free and open to the public.
Harmonies of Expression is a collaborative effort by EUNIC Zimbabwe in partnership with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe, Oxfam Zimbabwe, the National Association of Community Broadcasters, and earGround. EUNIC – the European Union National Institutes for Culture – comprises 39 cultural organisations from all EU member states and associated countries, working globally to promote cultural diplomacy and mutual understanding. – Follow on X: @mthabisi_mthire
