Local painter uses canvas to reclaim Zim’s narrative

Bulawayo-based contemporary artist George Masarira is set to stage his latest solo exhibition, How They See Us, at Loft 3 Art Gallery, Harare, on July 17, using art to challenge misconceptions about life in Zimbabwe and celebrate the resilience of its people.

The exhibition comes during a milestone year for the painter, who earlier this year showcased selected works at the South Dallas Cultural Centre in Dallas, Texas, in the United States, earning international exposure for his thought-provoking contemporary pieces.

Now turning his focus back home, Masarira says How They See Us is an invitation for audiences to look beyond stereotypes and engage with the realities of everyday Zimbabwean life through a series of carefully curated artworks.

He describes the exhibition as an immersive storytelling experience in which each artwork contributes to a broader narrative about survival, identity and hope.

“The motivation behind How They See Us stems from a deep-seated desire to challenge dominant narratives, foster understanding and celebrate the profound resilience of the Zimbabwean spirit.

“In a world that is quick to categorise and judge, the realities of life in Zimbabwe, particularly its vibrant informal economy, are often misunderstood or dismissed as mere chaos,” said Masarira.

According to the artist, the exhibition is built around four key themes. The first is reclaiming the narrative by presenting an authentic insider’s perspective on the adaptive strategies Zimbabweans employ to navigate economic challenges.

The second seeks to bridge perception gaps by encouraging conversations about the difference between external perceptions and lived realities. The third pillar celebrates resilience and human agency, honouring the ingenuity and determination that enable many Zimbabweans to build sustainable livelihoods despite difficult circumstances. The final theme invites both local and international audiences to reflect on how economic conditions influence national and personal identity.

“Ultimately, How They See Us is motivated by the conviction that true understanding begins when we look beyond the surface and acknowledge the profound meaning and motivation behind every human endeavour, especially those born from the crucible of everyday life,” he said.

Born in Gokwe 36 years ago, Masarira, a product of the Mzilikazi Art and Craft Centre, has been a contemporary artist since 2012.