admin
Tafadzwa Zimoyo
Entertainment Editor
Leonard Chikasvipa, a local wire artist, has been forced to adapt his work due to the soaring prices of wire in the country.
He now focuses on creating smaller pieces and selling unfinished works as the cost of wire, especially from South Africa, has become prohibitive.
“The wire I use is three times more expensive here compared to South Africa,” he said.
“It is not just regular wire; I need different gauges, which makes it harder to come by.
“This situation has impacted my business significantly, so now I only create pieces based on customers’ orders.”
To cope with the shortage, he has resorted to barter trading with friends in South Africa, sending small crafts in exchange for wire.
However, the cost of plating and finishing his creations remains a challenge.
“I mostly make animals, as they inspire me,” he said.
“You will notice that a lot of my work features wild animals, but I can create anything, even furniture, using wire.”
The global economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has further affected artists, limiting buyers from Europe, Asia, and America.
While Chikasvipa’s work has gained appreciation, many admirers can only afford smaller pieces.
“I dream of having a space to sell my work in high-end areas, especially resort towns,”said Chikasvipa, who has showcased his work at two exhibitions in Harare this year and hopes for more opportunities.
“I also want to exhibit my art at major exhibitions, both locally and internationally.
“I have enough pieces for a solo exhibition.”
Despite having over 30 years of experience in the arts, Chikasvipa is relatively new to wire crafting, with four years of experience.
Before that, he worked with bead crafting.
Online Reporter