adminLiberty Dube
ZIMBABWEANS should be inspired by heroes and heroines who achieved great things in the past so that we shame the detractors and aim for total economic independence across all sectors of our economy. Minister of Youth, Indigenisation, and Economic Empowerment, Chris Mushohwe, said this while officially opening “The Zimbabweans” solo exhibition by versatile artist and journalist, Knowledge Mushohwe at National Gallery of Zimbabwe’s Mutare offices last Friday.
The event was attended by tens of stakeholders including upcoming visual artists from across Mutare. Knowledge exhibited magnificent portraits of iconics who “laid the foundations for future success in Zimbabwe and the global arena” such as Joshua Nkomo, Josiah Tongogara, Oliver Mtukudzi, Safirio Madzikatire, Thomas Mapfumo, Dambudzo Marechera, Charles Mungoshi, Tsitsi Dangarembgwa, Chenjerai Hove, Peter Ndlovu, Nick Price and Moses Chunga.
“The equanimity gifted to us by our liberation heroes has given rise to the new heroes in sports, arts and culture among other disciplines. As we collectively fight internal and external forces bent on compromising and tarnishing the gains that the country has made thus far, it is imperative that our people should be inspired by those that have achieved great things in the past so that we shame the detractors and aim for total economic independence across all sectors of our economy.
“The time has come for Zimbabweans to be inspired by exemplary leadership exhibited by others so that empowerment becomes a right, not an option. This exhibition must be viewed in that context,” said Mushohwe.
Knowledge, in a sideline interview, revealed that he is also a sculptor, painter and photographer. He urged stakeholders, parents and guardians to nurture and support talents of upcoming artists.
“Parents, teachers and stakeholders should support their children and nurture their God-given talents. I learnt about my talents when I was tender and I grew up loving art because people around me supported and encouraged me. I hope to take this exhibition to a higher level and grow in leaps and bounds. I am overwhelmed by the attendance. It is encouraging to note that a lot of people are beginning to appreciate art,” said Knowledge.
Online Reporter