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David Shumba and Susan Nyabunze Arts Correspondents
Friends of Joshua Trust will mark their 10th anniversary next month with the launch of Toyi Toyi Gallery, the home of Zimbabwean history that showcases a pictorial expression of the journey of the liberation struggle.The gallery located in Harare’s Greencroft suburb will capture the identity and rich cultural values and practices that played an integral role in the liberation of Zimbabwe.
“The opening of the Toyi Toyi gallery will be the highlight and mark of our 10th celebrations. I implore your guidance and support as i position the Trust to contribute not only to the richness of our history and cultural heritage but also to the growth of the economy of Zimbabwe as youth making the best of the Zim-Asset,” Beverly Pullen, the chief executive of the trust said.
She said there will be reconstructions of the detention camps, Sikombela, Gonakudzingwa and Whawha prisons.
“There will be displays of the longest serving prisoners of the struggle —Daniel Madzimbamuto and Maurice Nyagumbo. A cultural village will also be constructed to capture the diverse cultures and identity of the Zimbabwean people, our rich cultural values and practices that played an integral role in the liberation of Zimbabwe,” she said.
Creative director of the gallery, Rayban Sengwayo said they headed the call from President Mugabe to establish a proper gallery to preserve the history of the liberation struggle.
“Whenever we used to hold exhibitions, President Mugabe would say that we should find a home for the exhibitions and now after 10 years we now have a gallery,” he said.
He also thanked Antiock Kuruone, who is a managing consultant for donating the premises which will be reconstructed into a fully fledged gallery.
Rev Paul Damasane, the Principal Director in the Ministry of Education, Sport, Arts and Culture said the establishment of the gallery will not only promote domestic tourism but also add value to the community from where it is located.
“President Mugabe has spoken about promoting domestic tourism and this is what we are seeing now. Imagine what value addition this will bring to the community here, it means the roads will be maintained and this will be one of the most secured areas.
“Another thing is that art is only being seen as entertainment but also used to preserve our cultural aspect,” Rev Damasane said.
Other features to be shown at the gallery include images of President Robert Mugabe, Mbuya Nehanda, Inkosi Lobengula, Joshua Nkomo and countries that assisted Zimbabwe in attaining its independence.
Online Reporter