The ManicaPost
Takudzwa Manzero
Weekender Reporter
The National Art Gallery of Zimbabwe recently commemorated International Women’s Day in Mutare.
The event was held under the theme, ‘Hear her story’.
The exhibition’s curator and Manicaland regional director, Elizabeth Muusha said the day was a special occasion for all humanity.
Muusha said: “As women, we are the strongest animals in the world as we handle a lot of trials and tribulations in our roles as mothers, partners, friends, girls and breadwinners to support our respective families.
“To all men, I would like to encourage you to embrace equity and level the playing field in society so that we may overcome the hurdles posed by systematic patriarchy.”
Six female artists—Jane Chipara, Tariro Gurira, Sandra Matamisa, Elizabeth Matondo, Patience Matyukira, and Sharmaine Chitate showcased their art which is inspired by real situations of life.
Meanwhile, the National Art Gallery of Zimbabwe in Mutare has introduced QR codes to ensure transparent registration of artworks in their galleries.
Assistant curator, Valerie Sithole said: “This works by sending pictures of the work, which is then classified in the system and rated to reach a certain price.
“The process is a game-changer as it helps with transparency among parties involved in the transactions.
“It also helps by strengthening the online presence of an artist’s catalogue.”
Sharmaine Chitate’s ‘Whispering Silence’ stood out as the digital storytelling project gave voices to 10 individuals that were impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Chitate’s presentation comprised interviewees who were sharing their experiences through folklore (ngano) in search of solutions for the Covid-19 pandemic.
The contributors shared their stories and spoke about how they would want people to re-engage in a new world.
After scanning a picture of Patricia Murwisi on a canvas, people are taken to Chitate’s website where they meet the individuals sharing their stories.
On the ‘Whispering Silence’ homepage, people are given a chance to see images before being given the option to view the people’s 360 degree experiences.
One is then challenged to delve into the augmented reality experience feature which is available to give audiences an immersive African experience.
Chitate said: “I researched on useful information from our indigenous culture that could be used to fight the pandemic.
“Activities such as physical distancing have been part and parcel of our culture. I talked to people about their life experiences and their favourite stories to educate others using folklore in the future.”
Tariro Gurira presented a rose bush that pierced the hearts of many.
Gurira revealed that she was motivated by the opportunity to be part of the exhibition as it fuelled her artistic zeal.
Nelia Chabuka from the Standards Association of Zimbabwe was the guest of honour.
She said the theme was inspired by the International Women’s Day theme, ‘DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality’.
“As the Standards Association of Zimbabwe, our role is to elevate artists to higher levels and break all the barriers. We are elated to merge art and technology to offer artists a level playing field of exposure and pricing to bolster their competitive edge at world-class level.
We look forward to breaking barriers in the form of language and continents hindering the full potential of our artists.
“As women, we are calling for equality among all citizens,” said Chabuka.
