admin
showcased at this year’s edition of the Harare International Festival of the Arts, says he draws inspiration from nature.
Gift said his role as an artist was to conserve the natural beauty of the flora and fauna of Zimbabwe more especially in his home town, Victoria Falls.
“Zimbabwe is rich in nature and has incredible diverse surroundings which I immerse myself in.
“I find inspiration from flame lilies, waterfalls and wildlife hence I play my role as an artist in trying to preserve them,” he said.
The 35-year-old artist, who is single, said he was born into a family of artists.
“I come from a family of artists. My parents used to own a craft shop where my mother was a fashion designer while my dad was into crafting,” Gift said.
As a mixed-media artist, Gift is a born experimenter, combining and transforming unexpected materials into pieces of self- expression.
Gift says he makes beautiful beaded wire animals, nested beaded containers and beaded furniture, jewellery and just about anything that inspires him.
His passion for art saw him establish a community-based incentive Ruoko project in January 2011 with Gayle Van and Christy B.
Starting off with four artists, the aim was to identify talented local artists and crafters and give them the chance to work studio grade materials and enhance their skills.
However, Gift believes that everyone must have the opportunity to express themselves artistically.
He said he was currently working on forming Zonke Trust, a platform he hopes to use as a training ground.
“My aim is to work with everyone at Zonke Trust. Artists who are failing to break into the industry and those who are merely interested in art,” Gift said.
Gift has worked and showcased in England, the United States and Zambia.
Online Reporter