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Tawanda Marwizi : Arts Correspondent
Sculptor Rufaro Murenza is on a mission to encourage women to teach their children on the importance of several cultural institutions and family unit. The NAMA award winner boasts of a gallery with pieces that depicts several issues affecting women. His gallery is at Chitungwiza Arts Centre. “Children need to be taught about several cultural issues so that they can defend them. As sculptors and artists we need to encourage the parents to teach their children, on the importance of such institutions as marriage” he said.Murenza who has several artworks that depicts motherhood and the role of the modern woman, depicted in his piece “Mukadzi Wanhasi” said he will continue to create pieces that encourage women to tackle several societal issues.
“Women are important in the society and as a sculptor who believes in them and their ability I will continue to produce works that appreciate and challenge them to take part in several societal roles,” he said.
He says he respects the marriage institution and is also currently working on pieces that encourage family unity.
Murenza uses a mixture of stones, opal and metals to create his artworks. He does not spare Biblical issues when making his pieces.
“I have a piece that tells the story about Lot in the Bible. As a Christian it is important to have such pieces in my gallery,” he said.
Murenza has bagged several awards among them Outstanding Dimensional Work with his “Mwana Wedangwe” sculpture at Nama.
The piece shows a mother and her first daughter. “Everyone gets excited when you are recognised for your works.
“I am happy that Chitungwiza Arts Centre has been on the ground marketing our products and everything,” he said.
He said he benefited a lot from the recently held training workshops.
“I used to sell my works and do other issues with the money but after the workshops I now understand why I should invest,” he said.
He started his career in 1996 and had no place to operate from until he joined the Arts Centre.
Online Reporter