Online Reporter
Liberty Dube
Entertainment Correspondent
SINCE the age of 16, Mutare-based visual artist, Andrew Zivengwa’s hands have spoken a language only his soul understands — using a paintbrush.
It is a silent, yet profound language of lines, colours, shadows and light.
A gifted visual artist, graphic designer, and photographer, he has walked a journey marked, not only by creative brilliance, but by a tireless devotion to spread messages of love, peace, unity and mental wellness through his art.
Now 29, Zivengwa’s portfolio speaks louder than accolades ever could.
From the quiet alleys of his childhood, sketching faces with charcoal on torn notebook paper, to the glowing canvases of exhibitions across Manicaland, he has remained loyal to his vision which captures humanity, in all its imperfections and glory.
What sets the youthful artist apart is, not merely his technical skill, but his ability to draw and design anything.
Weekender Entertainment caught up with the talented artist recently following another score at the recently held Manicaland Agricultural Show, where his latest piece of art stole the spotlight and won Overall Best Exhibit in the Adult Artists Category.
The painting titled, “Kwatinobva (Where We Come From)”, is a vivid and emotionally moving piece, and a commentary on the societal divide between the wealthy and the poor, aiming to inspire hope.
“This is my year because I really wanted this. ‘Kwatinobva’ is about where we come from. Some are born into wealth, others into poverty. But beyond material things, real joy comes from being mentally strong and connected with others.
“I believe even without money, a person can make a difference through kindness, creativity and purpose. That is the message I wanted this piece to carry,” he said.
The painting stood out among his 10 submitted artworks, showcasing his evolution as an artist.
Once a fierce competitor in the Young Adults Mixed Media Category, Ziwengwa has now fully emerged in the adult artist world with unshakable confidence and talent.
His journey began at The Manica Post during his graphic design internship, where he first gained public recognition.
That same year, he won several awards at the Agricultural Show, including First Prize in Pencil Drawing (Class Two) and Second Prize in Painting (Class One). His pencil drawing of “St Theresa”, the “Little Flower”, a young saint of the “Carmelite convent”, captured the adjudicators’ hearts.
During an interview then, he said he was intrigued by how young she looked, yet how profound her wisdom seemed.
“Her innocence and strength inspired me. I wanted to show how youth can carry wisdom and being young, but having a deep desire to make a difference.
“I am deeply inspired by people’s faces. No two people are the same. The structure, the story behind the eyes, the way emotions settle on the skin, it is like reading a book that has never been written,” added Ziwengwa.
Despite the accolades, he said he will remains grounded.
He attributes his achievements to hard work, passion, and the unwavering support of people who believe in his vision. He paid special tribute to Ann Guild, a mentor and supporter who has guided him throughout his artistic journey.
“Art has saved me more times than I can count. When I was younger, I drew to escape. Now, I draw to heal, not just myself, but others too.
“Each brushstroke is a whisper of hope and a call for unity. The power of art is that it connects us in ways words never could.
“My dream is to continue creating until my art has touched every corner of this world. Because I believe when we look into the faces I paint, we see not only others, but ourselves.
“I always aim to make each portrait send a message while breathing life into forgotten dreams, lifting hidden truths as well as building bridges across differences,” he added.
