Indian artist in Bulawayo for prestigious arts residency

Indian multi-disciplinary artist Piyali Ghosh is currently on a residency at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe (NGZ) in Bulawayo where she is set to curate a number of performances and activities based around her project “Rite of Passage”.

Ghosh’s work explores themes, including material and immaterial realities and the interplay between existence and time. The project will include a solo exhibition and live performances at various venues in the city, including the Khami Ruins and Railway Museum.

The artist will also host a Masterclass on performance art, followed by the unveiling of the Performance Art Bulawayo initiative. She extended her thanks to the NGZ and its director, Silenkosi Moyo, for what she called a prestigious opportunity to showcase her artistry in her first visit to the continent.

“This is my first visit to Africa, and I’m thrilled to be here. Although I’ve only been in Bulawayo for a few weeks, the welcome from the locals has been heart-warming. Their smiles truly warm my heart,” said Ghosh.

“I didn’t know much about Zimbabwean culture, but interacting with Charles Nkomo, Umkhathi Theatre Works and Lewis (Drums of Peace) has taught me a great deal about Bulawayo. They will be joining me in my performance on Friday. I’m excited to be working with them,” she said.

Ghosh’s “Rite of Passage” was curated and conceptualised by her, under the watchful eye of organiser and fellow artist, Fisani Nkomo.

“We aim to push the boundaries of art with this project and collaborating with local artists who understand the local culture was essential in curating this type of performance and solo exhibition,” Ghosh said.

The exhibition will be unveiled tomorrow at the NGZ, followed by live performances at various venues across the city. In addition to her performances, Ghosh will host a Masterclass on June 4, offering aspiring artists a unique opportunity to explore performance art.

In addition to her exhibitions, Ghosh has delivered remarkable drawing performances worldwide.
Her work has been recognised and supported by esteemed organisations like the London Arts Council, British Council and Australia Council.

With a Master’s Degree in Fine Arts and a Bachelor’s in Visual Arts, Ghosh has honed her craft through extensive education and experience.The Kolkata-born artist resides in Baroda, Gujarat and vividly remembers how the Covid-19 pandemic resulted in her being stuck in her studio for a long time, further nudging her to the ultimate creative edge.

“I was stuck in my studio alone for two years and the experience helped me understand life and art better. Just a stone’s throw away from my studio is a health facility and in my solitude, I worked to inspire positivity where there seemed to be none. It was there that my love for creating art inspired by ocean waves, vibrations and the energy from the water was ignited,” she shared.

In a separate interview, environmentally-conscious artist Fisani Nkomo said Ghosh’s project is both timely and crucial for the growth of the local art sector.

“Piyali Ghosh’s project contributes to the growth and development of art in Bulawayo and beyond by fostering cross-cultural dialogue, nurturing local talent and expanding the boundaries of artistic expression,” he said.

In a press statement, the NGZ expressed its excitement to host Ghosh, saying they are looking forward to sharing her remarkable work with the vibrant communities of Bulawayo and beyond. — Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu