Zimpapers Logo

Ashley Phiri, [email protected]
MEET Mandisa Nyoni, a visionary artist who breathes new life into discarded glass, transforming trash into breath-taking works of art. Her passion for sustainability and environmental consciousness fuels her creativity, turning what most see as waste into powerful statements.

Nyoni’s artistic journey began unexpectedly during the 2020 lockdown. Seeking an outlet for her creativity, she found inspiration in a broken mirror at home. From its shattered pieces, she envisioned a ballerina, igniting a spark that would define her artistic path — upcycling.

Upcycling is the act of taking something no longer in use and giving it a second life and new function. In doing so, the finished product often becomes more practical, valuable, and beautiful than it previously was. It is different from recycling, which takes old materials and breaks them down into new materials that can be used for other products.

Mandisa Nyoni’s upcycled art

Fast forward to 2022, Nyoni fully embraced the world of upcycling art. The abundance of discarded glass in her community became her muse, a challenge to transform waste into beauty.
“I want people to know that art can play a significant role in reducing waste in our communities.

Discarded glass in its unwanted state can be turned into beautiful quality art that can showcase our culture,” she said. Her art transcends traditional boundaries, crafting everything from animals to landscapes and captivating portraits, all from salvaged glass.

Nyoni’s deep-rooted environmental consciousness allows her to seamlessly blend her passion for art with her commitment to sustainability, creating a harmonious fusion of the two things she loves most.

Mandisa Nyoni’s upcycled art

“Seeing the effects of global warming and how as humans we contribute to the phenomenon does make me look at myself and the individual role I play in contributing to it. I then ask myself what I can do to make the situation better.

I have always hated littering, from a very young age I’ve never understood the reason for it. Whenever I see litter around I’ve always wondered what can be done with it.“I know my art may not contribute much to address the situation. It makes me feel better to know that I’m doing something in my individual capacity.

If the next person also does their part we can collectively achieve the goal of saving the environment. What gives me joy the most is that I am able to blend my love of the environment and art into one,” she said.

Mandisa Nyoni’s upcycled art.

In March, she was part of a group exhibition at the National Art Gallery in Bulawayo entitled “Vital Voices, Invest in Women.” Currently, her focus is on a powerful series of portraits of women, each named with an African name of personal significance.

These names represent the inspirational figures who have shaped her life. Her planned upcoming solo exhibition, titled “Her Name Is,” embodies this theme, aiming to empower and spotlight strong women through the language of art and names that carry stories.

To bring “Her Name Is” to life, Nyoni seeks support. The funds will cover essential costs like materials, gallery space, transportation, and the logistics of hosting a grand opening with upwards of 150 attendees. Envisioning a showcase of 25 diverse artworks, each carefully and beautifully crafted, she wants to ensure a safe and impactful exhibition experience.

Nyoni also plans to widen her reach to the international market due to the economic hardships she is facing in the country. “My journey as an artist hasn’t been easy and it still isn’t. Trying to support myself through my art in this economy has been difficult as most people don’t want to invest in art.

Some say they really appreciate the beauty of my artwork but they can’t afford it so friends and family have been my support system so far but that hasn’t been enough.“Due to that I have started to look into the international market because in other countries especially in Europe and Americas people appreciate art and they pay a lot for it.

I’m happy doing art and I want to encourage everyone to do what they love even though it might not be paying much.” Beyond the visual, Nyoni plans to complement the exhibition with an original EP, further showcasing her artistic expression as an aspiring musician.

This multimedia experience promises to be a captivating display of her diverse talents, blending her visual artistry with her musical creativity for a truly immersive experience.