Online Reporter
Trust Khosa
Zimpapers Arts, Entertainment Hub
A VIBRANT collaboration between Zimbabwean and European artists unfolds at the “Harmonies of Expression” exhibition opening this Saturday at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Harare.
The event unites artists in a powerful campaign addressing the critical issue of climate change.
Under the theme “Connecting Art, Heart, and Science,” the exhibition, presented by EUNIC Zimbabwe, will showcase a diverse range of artistic mediums, including dance, music, culinary arts, photography and fashion.
EUNIC Zimbabwe comprises the embassies of Sweden, France, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Romania, Portugal, Cyprus, the Alliance Française, the Zimbabwe-German Society and the British Council.
The impressive roster of participating artists includes Eveline Gerristen, a photographer from the Netherlands; Kombo Chapfika, a Zimbabwean visual artist; Alessandra Nicola, an Italian visual artist specialising in recycled materials; and Zimbabwean craftsman Tichaona Maledadi. Chef Chola (Zimbabwe), French dancer Soukaina (MarieLaure Edom), British dancer Ellen Rock, and DJ Kolorz (Germany) will also contribute their talents to the event.
Fashion enthusiasts can anticipate creations from Spanish designer Natalia Carrasco Rodriguez and Fabril Party, a Zimbabwean design collective, while local graphic designer Tinashe Mutenga will offer attendees a variety of visual experiences.
Music will be provided by local mbira player Nasibo, Swedish R&B artist Cherrie, and the Zimbabwean ensemble Bantu Spaceship.
Speaking at a reception dinner on Wednesday, the Ambassador of Sweden to Zimbabwe, Per Lindgarde, emphasised the urgent need to address climate change.
“Zimbabwe is a country challenged by climate change, and last year’s drought demonstrated that this is a very real, lived experience for everyone,” he stated.
“How can art help people understand, connect with, and feel some empowerment in relation to this challenge? Our artists are exploring this in their collaborations, all of which will be displayed on Saturday at the National Gallery.”
Ambassador Lindgarde explained that the EUNIC Zimbabwe cluster was formed to foster cultural exchange between Zimbabwe and Europe. The “Harmonies of Expression” project brings together Zimbabwean and European artists in collaborative projects across various disciplines, including dance, music, food, photography, and fashion.
The project includes 10 artists from 7 European countries and 27 Zimbabwean artists. He highlighted the variety of possible artistic and cultural collaborations between Europe and Zimbabwe.
Ambassador Lindarge emphasised the significance of culture and art, stating, “Culture and art unite people perhaps more than anything, and creating opportunities for more cultural bonds to develop lays important groundwork for cooperation and mutual understanding.”
He added that the project aims to explore and highlight how art can play a role in shedding light on and creating emotional resonance with topics usually confined to the space of science.
The project also extends engagement to young people and aspiring artists through open workshops in areas including Hatcliffe and Mbare.
EUNIC Zimbabwe has partnered with the various organisations through a Memorandum of Understanding.
NACZ boss Napoleon Nyanhi welcomed the partnership with EUNIC Zimbabwe, calling it a game-changer for artists.
“The EUNIC program represents a bridge that connects our local talents with the diverse cultures of Europe, creating opportunities for exchange, innovation, and shared growth,” he said.
“This partnership is a testament to the belief that culture transcends borders. Through collaborative exhibitions, workshops, performances, and residencies, we will nurture new artistic voices, celebrate our shared humanity, and explore the intersections of tradition and contemporary expression.”
He added that engagements like “Harmonies of Expression” give Zimbabwean creatives the exposure they need.
Attendees can expect to experience culinary arts combined with dance, music performances, furniture and crafts made from recycled materials, repurposed fashion designs, fashion combined with fine art, and photography blended with mixed media.
By bringing together diverse voices and artistic mediums, the event hopes to inspire dialogue, understanding, and a sense of empowerment within the community, paving the way for future collaborations between Europe and Zimbabwe.
