Mthabisi Tshuma, [email protected]
GWANDA-based visual artist and disability rights activist Mthandazo Ndlovu, popularly known as Mtha, is using his artistic talent to champion inclusivity, celebrate African heritage and create opportunities for artists living with disabilities.
Through his initiative, African Pride Art, Mtha hopes to transform his passion for drawing and painting into a platform that empowers artists with disabilities while showcasing African culture, wildlife and nature to audiences beyond Zimbabwe.
Born with spina bifida, clubfoot and hydrocephalus, Mtha uses crutches for mobility and has a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt to drain excess fluid from his brain.
Despite the challenges associated with his conditions, he has continued to pursue his artistic ambitions, drawing inspiration from his personal experiences and the world around him.
He said his journey had not been without difficulties, particularly during his school years, when discrimination and a lack of accessible facilities made learning challenging.
However, his passion for art provided an avenue for self-expression and personal development, helping him build confidence and discover his creative abilities.
“I was born with multiple disabilities, including spina bifida and clubfoot. Despite these physical challenges, I have defied expectations, cultivating a remarkable talent for art that showcases the vibrant spirit of African culture and wildlife.
“Living with these conditions has presented daily challenges, from limited mobility to accessibility barriers. However, these experiences have fuelled my determination to succeed, inspiring a unique perspective that shines through in my art.
“I am also one of the pioneers of Nkomwa Foundation Trust (NFT), which has played a pivotal role in developing my artistic career and supporting me in life generally,” he said.
Mtha said his interest in drawing began in primary school, with his passion gradually developing into a commitment to use art as a tool for social change.
“I started falling in love with drawing when I was in Grade Three. With a focus on painting and sketching, I have skillfully blended traditional African techniques with modern styles, creating captivating works that celebrate Africa’s rich heritage, wildlife and nature,” he said.
Through African Pride Art, he hopes to establish a platform where artists with disabilities can showcase their abilities, develop their skills and participate meaningfully in the creative industry.
His long-term ambition is to establish an accessible art studio that will provide artists with disabilities with an enabling environment to create, learn and collaborate.
Mtha said realising this vision would require partnerships with individuals and organisations that believe in the transformative power of the arts.
“I am inviting art enthusiasts, donors, well-wishers, collectors and philanthropists to partner with us as we set our sights on providing accessible art equipment and materials, as well as establishing an inclusive art studio that will empower artistes with disabilities.
“Our vision is to become a leading voice for inclusive art in Africa, promoting diversity and empowerment. We want to create art that inspires, educates and uplifts, while providing opportunities for artistes with disabilities to shine,” he said.
Mtha believes disability should never be viewed as a barrier to creativity, ambition or professional achievement, urging people living with disabilities to recognise their potential and pursue their aspirations.
“I don’t want anything to hold me back, and my disability does not define my capabilities. I believe in myself and my unique perspective. We need more organisations that empower artistes with disabilities,” he said.
Beyond producing his own artwork, Mtha is keen to take his skills into educational spaces, particularly schools, where he hopes to inspire young people to explore their creativity and appreciate the power of artistic expression.
