adminTafadzwa Zimoyo Arts Reporter
Sculptor Tamuka Njanji of Monda Art Village in Seke communal lands, is currently engaging art lovers from Austria and the United States in a cultural exchange programme
The four visitors are also receiving sculpture lessons from the award-winning dreadlocked carver. The three are Michael Treml, who is a teacher, Katharina and Magdalina Treml who are both art students and Maureen Michaelson, a traveller.
During their stay in Zimbabwe, the four visitors have been shuttling between Monda Art Village and Munhenga Farm in Goromonzi, owned by Njanji.
Speaking to this reporter, Njanji said he was happy to play host to the foreigners and said this is a show of confidence in Zimbabwe as well as its art business.
“We are happy that our art is gradually regaining the lustre that used to characterise it and this is also good for the nation as a whole.
“They are excited to be in Zimbabwe and they are free and happy to be here seeing for themselves what Zimbabwe is really like.
When they visit Zimbabwe they become a part of the whole family,” Njanji said.
Michael Treml said he was happy to be in Zimbabwe, and described the people as friendly and expressed his joy to be in Zimbabwe.
He said he was going to share his experience and perception of Zimbabwe with his fellow countrymen back home and also help in changing the negative view that some people have of the country.
“It is very saddening to note that Zimbabwe is given a very strange image out there but one needs to come for themselves in order to appreciate the peaceful and friendly environment that prevails here.
“I am in my second home when I am in Zimbabwe,” said Michael.
Maureen said she belonged to the world and longed for people of all walks of life to be one in everything that they do.
“There are so many truths in the world that need to be articulated and one of them is for people to be responsible and offer a helping hand to those in need.
“I don’t have a family so my responsibility is to help others. My vision is to start a school in Zimbabwe and the objective is not to get money but to give back to the world.
“I worked on farms as a child and hence my keen interest to visit farms here in Zimbabwe.” Maureen, has also taught English language at an orphanage in Victoria Falls.
Njanji is a renowned sculptor who has exhibited in various parts of the world, especially in Korea, where his art is well-known.
He has also held art exhibitions as well as workshops both in and outside Zimbabwe.
Online Reporter