25 Jul 2024

 Art just like music should give one an identity, says Zimbabwean contemporary visual artist Batsirai Muskwe.

Giving lecture during an art talk session at Thapong Visual Arts Centre in Gaborone  on Tuesday, Muskwe said artists needed to be unique in their craft and make people believe in their work. “It is always important to be authentic and not paint what you want to sell. It is the same with music, where people appreciate that you remained yourself and love your work for that,” he said.

Muskwe said just like in music, a visual artist could experiment with various discipline, but there should be that one discipline that distinguishes them from others. He said artists should master being consistent and constantly develop their brands, adding that once they become brands, they instantly develop their identities.

Sharing ideas on opportunities available for local visual artists, Muskwe identified funding and art residencies, noting that the trick was to be on the lookout everywhere.“In Zimbabwe art is big, it is a movement with many residencies, studios and galleries around. And with so much activities around art, there is also more support toward art,” Muskwe said. 

He implored local artists to sacrifice and explore opportunities outside their comfort, and spend their funds if need be, saying such efforts could open huge opportunities for residencies, sponsorship and funding for them.Coordinator of Thapong Visual Arts Centre expressed disappointment toward the local artists for their reluctance toward initiatives such as exchanges, which come with opportunities. 

He said art exchanges gave them opportunities to share skills and learn from professionals like Muskwe on how to make it globally, where to improve and hone their work for global audience. Muskwe is exhibiting alongside Botswana’s Uhuru Kgope at Thapong Visual Arts centre, following a two months art residency at the centre. The exhibition opened yesterday. Ends