BULAWAYO visual artist, sculptor and photographer Danisile Ncube says visual arts play a significant role in Bulawayo’s cultural and social landscape, serving as storytellers, also preserving history, traditions, and experiences.
Ncube told Standard Style that art was a cultural ambassador when it comes to showcasing Bulawayo’s unique identity, heritage, and talent.
“It is also a catalyst for change as we address social issues that spark conversations, and promote activism in different spheres,” he said.
“Visual arts are community builders they help by fostering collaboration, inclusivity, and social cohesion.
“Which helps economic drivers and contribute to the city’s creative industry, tourism, and local economy play a pivotal role in therapeutic outlets providing a platform for expression, healing, and personal growth.
“Visual arts innovate by pushing boundaries, experimenting with new forms, and keeping the city vibrant.”
Ncube added that by embracing and supporting visual arts, Bulawayo can continue to thrive as a hub of creativity, diversity, and cultural richness.
He further spoke on how his artistic journey evolved saying the journey keeps changing depending on the system.
“The journey keeps changing depending on the System and the times we are living in which are hard to deal with,” Ncube said.
“So, bad and good times are inspirational artworks on their own. One has to have an eye to portray the times and the things happening.
“Besides that one has to find a soothing, upbringing, warming or sometimes harsh way of putting things artistically to send a message to alert, educate and empower.
“So as a multi-disciplinary artist much of my work has changed.
“I suspect one criminal, old age creeping on me. Though l do understand that good wine is best when it gets matured.
“So yeah my work has changed from much of complicated small and big pieces to simple, big but effective messages relayed across.
“More so, now concentrating much on facilitating in art workshops and creating my sentimental pieces in painting, installations, sculpture and a bit of commissions here and there.”