Africa-Press – Zimbabwe. Debate on pedigree, especially by teachers, often discourages family-borrowed habits, and in particular when they get to be toxic or deviant.
It is, however, common in the learning processes of the heritage-based curriculum or the teaching of the arts that it has been accepted as true that most creative skills are shared at the family level.
Positively, as in the case of brothers Hugh and Lionel Mbayiwa, whose works are on exhibition at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Harare under the title Dzemudanga, Shona for from the same kraal, counsels a lot on cultural preservation and nurturing good habits.
NewsDay Life & Style had a conversation with Hugh Hatitye Mbayiwa, a multi-media visual artist, who trained at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe Visual Studios. His themes are driven by realities within his origins in Mhondoro and a sense of embracing the social fabric.
Hugh said he collaborated with his brother Lionel in the exhibition and their partnership presented them with an opportunity to share strengths and build a connection in a broader sense.
With this in mind, they painted together a drum, which is symbolic of the power in unity. The drum painting was of great impact as it treasured, glorified and paid tribute and brought awareness of several social issues.
“I am quite sure Dzemudanga’s history will repeat itself and see another season. Yes, I am always exploring to stay ahead of myself. As torch bearers of today, I have always found a need to scout new talent that will take our legacy forward into future generations.
“I derive my ideas based on themes, a pure urge to experiment and challenge myself to venture into several techniques and appreciate other styles that lead to diversity. As an arts teacher, I find myself experimenting with what I learnt,” Hugh said.
He added that the exhibition at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe featured a diverse range of artworks, which included but were not limited to Taakuno, which means we are here, and it is a painting that speaks of migration, be it in the physical or spiritual sense.
“The painting, therefore, points to where we end up destined. This may also define transformation and metamorphosis of a career path, as this enables us to track our record to where we are now. Mbuya VaDoren is a painting, print, and collage, a direct tribute to my maternal grandmother. I, together with Lionel, have used some pieces of cloth and doilies that belonged to our late granny. This is a strong signal and symbol that points to heritage preservation starting at the family level.
“Pro-State is a sculpture made out of found objects in the form of mixed media. This 3D piece of work is simply depicting a natural transformation that affects men in a certain age group in their course of life,” he shared a secret to his art.
Hugh said he was subconsciously influenced by his teaching of African rock paintings and Aboriginal arts. He envisions his art fitting into the broader world through its unique messages.
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