admin
Langalakhe Mabena
Contemporary artists Shona Art – who specialises on Zimbabwe sculptures, have been unveiled as part of the exhibitors at the first edition of Moto Moto Festival set to run from 20 July at Odonien in Cologne, Germany.
The Festival is a collaborative effort between Mhako and Germany promoter Victor Schach, who has Zimbabwean roots.
Moto-Moto Festival targets the European market with the goal of pushing African music to the global space. It focuses on getting an internationally diverse audience to come and enjoy what Zimbabwe has to offer in terms of music and artistry.
The festival was created as a way of exporting “rich” Zimbabwean music to Europe, at the same time creating a market and an ecosystem that will create new global stars, from Zimbabwe to the world.
Shona-Art will exhibit, sell art and also do small workshops on the site, taking those who will be in attendance on a path to discover the beauty and inspiration of Zimbabwean stone sculpture.
“For the past twenty years, the Shona Art Gallery at Steinhausen Castle in Witten on the Ruhr has been a cultural gem, enchanting visitors with exceptional sculptures made of serpentine stone, upcycled metal, and driftwood.
“Set amidst old mines, an ancient forest, and close to the Ruhr, the gallery offers the perfect ambience to highlight these magnificent African art pieces. As Shona Art will be part of this year’s exhibitors at Moto Moto, I urge people not to miss this unique opportunity to experience the splendor of Zimbabwean art,” said Plot Mhako who is one of the founders of the festival. On the main stage – the woman of the moment in the Zimbabwe music scene, Feli Nandi will be the main act.
Mhako said Feli Nandi was chosen as the headlining act because of her work ethic and standard of performance on stage.
“Over the past two years, I embarked on a mission to establish a festival in Europe that celebrates traditional Zimbabwean music and creative culture. This led to my partnership with Victor Schach and we have created the Moto Moto Festival.
“Zimbabwe’s fast rising Afro-fusion artiste Feli Nandi and a live band will headline the event, supported by a German band and a DJ. The family-friendly festival will feature a variety of activities, including an exhibition and sale of Zimbabwean art and stone sculptures by the Shona Art Gallery, Marimba and Mbira workshops for kids, traditional Zimbabwean food and apparel from Feli Nandi.
“Our goal is to grow this annual festival into a must-attend event for anyone in Europe wanting to experience authentic Zimbabwean culture. The name “Moto Moto,” which means “Fire Fire,” symbolises the creative flames from Zimbabwe. It speaks of the resilience and burning desire of the Zimbabwean people to lift the flag high,” said Mhako.
Online Reporter