adminEmmanuel Ndlovu
VISUAL artists from Bulawayo have started a new concept called Artists for Peace 2013, aimed at producing work of art that conveys messages of peace to the nation. The concept which is a brain child of Visual Artists Association of Bulawayo (VAAB), the only surviving association representing visual artists in the City of Kings was started this month.
Artists are to show their artistic ingenuity by producing works in various mediums such as sculptures, paintings, textiles, sketches, drawings and installations.
Their final products will be exhibited on 5 July at the Empire gallery in Kumalo suburb.
Danisile Ncube the organiser of the event said the concept was to challenge local artists to upgrade their skills in expressing themselves based on peace.
He also said it will revitalise the important role artists can play in solving confrontations that have become the order of the day in most modern societies.
“Artists for Peace 2013 is an exhibition that stands, as a challenge to local artists. It challenges their expression skills and creativity.
They are supposed to use their talent to promote peace and tranquillity. They should produce their work of art with the question, who will bring peace and how?” Ncube said.
He said time has come for artists to take a stand in the society and be custodians of peace by preaching it through their work.
“This is quite imperative particularly now when the nation is heading for harmonised elections next month,” said Ncube.
The concept has already attracted about 18 artists from different categories.
VAAB is a local association that was formed in 1986. Some of the members of association include renowned artists such as Voti Thebe, Charles Msimanga, Newman Ndlovu and Mthabisi Phili among others.
Online Reporter