Veteran fine artist out to groom next generation

In an interview, Mugiya, who comes from a family of 32, said over the years he was exposed to a number of societal ills which he hopes to express, explain and fight through art.

“I come from a polygamous family and as I grew up, I witnessed a lot of domestic violence, tribalism, poverty and              HIV and Aids which I believe I can express and explain through art.
“My dream is to have a studio where I can teach up-and-coming talented artists whom I believe need to be nurtured and groomed at a tender age,” he said.

Mugiya last year enrolled at Bulawayo Polytechnic’s art department after lecturers were impressed by his portfolio with artworks dating back to the early ’90’s.
“I was not privileged enough to pursue an academic career before, as I only managed to go up to O Level at Chivizina Secondary in Zvishavane.
“I never stopped painting as I found myself drawing anywhere, be it in a bus, train or bush. A compilation of my works has helped me compile a portfolio which paved way for my enrolment at Bulawayo Polytechnic last year in August,” said the artist.

He said he draws his inspiration from local artists, among them the legendary late Dambudzo Marechera, National Gallery in Bulawayo director, Voti Thebe, and art lecturer David Mwamuka. Mugiya said he had also perfected his skills from Mozambique’s Malanga Tama and a collection of Italian art works by Giulio Carlo Argun who wrote the book Monuments, Masterpieces, Commissions and Collections.

The father of seven also bemoaned how works by great     African artists had been distorted by numerous western             artists.
“Just by virtue of our skin colour, most of our great ancestors’ works have been distorted which explains why many of these paintings represent one race.
“Portraits by African artists were there, dating back to the days of slave trade, but because of censorship, they were never exhibited,” he said.

Portraits by Mugiya tackle domestic violence, imperialism, poverty, polygamy, HIV and Aids. The artist’s works tell a story of a thousand words with vivid imagery of the theme being portrayed.

The artist also said art was a language that could only be understood by those with an analytical eye.
“Art is a language that only those with the ability to appreciate the detail can deduce a thing or two from it,” he said.

The artist also urged local artists to promote the industry by advocating for recognition instead of relocating to other countries.