Zimpapers Logo

Arts Correspondent

An exhibition showcasing works of artists from various backgrounds opens this month at Tsoko Gallery in Msasa. Titled “Beyond the Body”, the showcase will open on July 29 and run until September 30 at the gallery that is adjacent to Chapungu Sculpture Park. Works of young and emerging artists will dominate the show and the pieces would be in the form of print, photography and installation art.“Beyond the Body” explores the manner in which people look into abstract realms, histories, memories and religions.

Artists included in the exhibition are Mukudzei Muzondo, Franklin Dzingai, Eva

Raath, Valerie Sithole, Kresiah Mukwazhi and Georgina Maxim.

All the artists in this exhibition explore the many ways that people attempt to make meaning beyond the body.

“This exhibition will explore the manner in which we look into abstract realms, into our histories, memories and religions in the hope that we might immortalise a presence that once was concrete. A fitting and relevant theme in the Zimbabwean context, this show interrogates indigenous beliefs, personal narratives, present day culture and borrowed traditions,” noted organisers of the exhibition in a statement.

“Beyond the Body” is Tsoko Gallery’s inaugural art exhibition which will also mark the launch of the new visual art space. The gallery lends its name from the friendly troop of monkeys that frequent the venue in Msasa.

Chapungu Village founding directors Marcey Mushore and Roy Guthrie noted, “A new initiative starts at Doon Estate Chapungu Village. Starting with the outstanding exhibit – ‘Own Your Rubbish’ – Tsoko Gallery will go on to an exceptional exhibit of mixed media artists titled ‘Beyond the Body’.

“This is the direction we would like to see for Tsoko Gallery – a space devoted to the promotion, documentation, encouragement, of our many Zimbabwe painters and mixed media artists. May it grow into a major force in this field.”

Gallery director Katharine Schneeberger states, “Tsoko Gallery is a space where critically engaging work can be exhibited, allowing for arts’ education and arts’ promotion to be achieved. Art must be accessible and appeal to a diverse audience, yet be relevant socio-politically and culturally.”