Online Reporter
Nkosilathi Sibanda
ART lovers, historians and culturalists will on Friday be treated to an engaging display of art works depicting the rich legacy of King Mzilikazi at the Natural History Museum in Bulawayo.
The exhibition, by renowned visual artist, Sipho Khumalo, is aptly titled “King Mzilikazi: Celebrating his legacy of nation building”.
This will be a first of its kind visual art show that is set to open public discourse on how art can be used to document and preserve cultural legacies, and contribute to nation building.
Combing a mixed media approach, the exhibition is a construction of acrylics, collage and other creative forms of expression.
Khumalo said his paintings and installations are a show of how the founding King of the Ndebele nation has been revered as a leader who respected life, valued humanity, nature and more importantly championed self determination in his Kingdom and beyond.
The artist said the exhibition promises to be a poignant celebration of the King’s visionary leadership and nation-building efforts.
“The exhibition aims to capture the essence of King Mzilikazi’s story, emphasising his role as a nation builder and a symbol of strength, resilience, and national pride. This is a series of paintings in honour of the great King.
Through art, we are presenting. how our King managed to form a nation among different tribes, unifying tribes, cultures without disturbing people’s way of living. With this exhibition we are also showing how King Mzilikazi was in touch with nature.
“In the exhibition, there will be portraits depicting the Ndebele way of life. We have, for example, portraits of cattle, symbolising the economy of the Ndebele people.
We explore life in the Kingdom, the value of women as mothers of the nation, the importance of chiefs in preserving culture and maintaining order.
There is lot see and talk about. We invite everyone to be part of the show,” said Khumalo.
In his works, Khumalo worked hand in glove with curator Fisani Nkomo. The guest speaker will be Prince Leo Zulukandaba Khumalo.
