Online Reporter
Fungai Lupande
Mashonaland Central Bureau
At just 22 years old, Iky Rupiya has emerged as a remarkable self-taught artist, known for his distinctive style and emotionally charged artworks that capture the essence of his subjects.
His journey into the world of art began as an escape from disappointment, transforming into a passionate pursuit that now defines his life.
Iky’s artistic journey commenced after he completed his Ordinary Level examinations in 2021.
“It was fun at first as I tried to escape the disappointment of not passing my exams,” he recalls.
“It then grew into a passion. Now it’s all that I do.”
Born on November 4, 2003, Iky never had formal art education in primary or secondary school.
Initially, he envisioned following in his father’s footsteps to become a footballer; his father, a former player for Dynamos, remains Iky’s biggest inspiration.
As he navigated societal pressures to secure traditional employment, Iky chose to carve his own path through art.
He encourages other youths to reject societal expectations and pursue their true passions.
“You have the power to write your own destiny,” he asserts.
Reflecting on his early experiences, he shares, “I remember when I started doing art, people began comparing me to other kids my age who were doing well in life or still in school.
“The more I immersed myself in art, the more I realised that it can be a lifelong commitment.”
Iky believes that his artwork is continually improving, and he dreams of inspiring more individuals to embrace their own artistic journeys.
He sees art as a universal language, stating, “Art is diverse, and everyone is an artist in their own right.
“A chef is an artist, and so is a carpenter. What you show the world is what defines you.”
For Iky, painting is a form of self-expression. “When I paint, I express what I am feeling at that moment,” he explains.
He gravitates toward realism, aiming to reflect the beauty of everyday life and the wonders of creation. Armed with paint, coloured pencils, pens, and a pencil, Iky is determined to leave a lasting mark on the art world.
His ambition is to exhibit his work at the Brooklyn Museum of Art in New York, a dream he holds close to his heart. However, he feels that art is often undervalued in Zimbabwe.
“People should learn more about art to truly understand it,” he urges.
“Many complain about the price, but they don’t realise the cost of the materials and the hard work that goes into creating art.”
If given the chance to effect change, Iky would lower the prices of art materials, making them more accessible to aspiring artists. He primarily focuses on wildlife pieces but also enjoys creating portraits of people, showcasing his versatility as an artist.
Currently enrolled at the National Arts Gallery of Zimbabwe, Iky is in his second and final year of study.
“I want to be one of the best artists in Zimbabwe, Africa, and the world,” he shares with passion. His goal is to inspire more children to pursue art, fostering a new generation of creatives.
Looking ahead, Iky envisions a future filled with opportunities, stating, “I wish to exhibit in more than ten art galleries worldwide in the next five years.” His determination and talent serve as a beacon of hope for young artists everywhere, proving that with dedication and passion, dreams can indeed become reality.
