The Journey Out to the unknown - National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Mutare 2006-2010.

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From left: Wallen Mapondera, Inzwai Mushowe, Enos Mangaku and Richard Mudariki                                                                    (from the Archival Records of the Richard Mudariki)

In early 2006, I participated in and curated my first three-man exhibition at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Mutare, titled "Our Thoughts." I still remember that time vividly: we were young, inexperienced, poor, confused, and unknown artists. We traveled by train overnight from Harare to Mutare, with our artworks stored in the baggage section. Arriving early in the morning for our first visit to the Eastern Highlands city, we discovered some of our artworks were damaged. Hungry and disoriented, we got lost trying to navigate from the train station to the gallery. Without cellphones, we had to rely on asking for directions from people on the streets.

Lost and wandering around the city with our paintings and drawings wrapped in plastic and cloth, we eventually arrived at the gallery. We were warmly welcomed by Judy Mutunhu, the Regional Director at the time. Although we did not sell any work at the exhibition, it marked the beginning of a wonderful relationship with the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Mutare.

National Gallery of Zimbabwe im Mutare. Entrance into the gallery: Photo Credit: Wallen Mapondera (from the Archival records of the artist)



I am very grateful for that experience; it taught me the importance of seeking out opportunities despite setbacks and difficulties. For the next three years, we held three-man exhibitions at the National Gallery and developed a good following. We made friends, including Katharine Prescott-Decie Schneeberger, who supported our efforts as young artists. Most importantly, in 2008, we participated in the Africa University Arts Festival, a significant event in the city of Mutare.

It gave the group confidence and helped us become known within the arts community of Mutare. I would also like to recognize Judy Mutunhu (Regional Director in 2006), Elizabeth Muusha (current Regional Director), Mr. Chikukwa (gallery manager), Richard Mawere (a good friend who has supported our efforts and helped with accommodation), Dr. Mutunhu, Dr. T. Chitepo, representatives from the Mayor of Mutare and the City of Mutare, as well as all those I may not have mentioned at this time.

The yearly visits to this city made me fall in love with the ever-green, mountainous city full of lovely Manyika people. One day, when I am as old as vintage wine, I will retire in that beautiful city.


Media coverage: The Herald newspaper February 2008 (from Archival Records of Richard Mudariki)



Photo taken at the NRZ train station in Mutare in 2008 before we left.  From Left: Wallen Mapondera, Richard Mudariki and Inzwai Mushohwe. (from the Archival records of Richard Mudariki)

EXHIBITIONS
2006: Our Thoughts, NGZ Mutare, Mutare, Zimbabwe
2007: Our Sixth Sense, NGZ Mutare, Zimbabwe
2008: Onai, NGZ Mutare, Zimbabwe
2009: Africa University Arts Festival, Group Exhibition, NGZ Mutare
2010: reflections.co.zw, NGZ Mutare, Zimbabwe



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