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Angela Sibanda, [email protected]

Visual artist Descent Nyoni (22) who hails from Lower Gweru is set to host his debut solo exhibition in Bulawayo next month.

The exhibition titled “From Grass to Grace” is scheduled for November 3 at the Alliance Française De Bulawayo, courtesy of the National Art Gallery of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo.

The title of the exhibition is drawn from Nyoni’s life journey and experiences with the exhibition being a milestone achievement for him.

“I grew up in a community where loitering was and is still a norm for young boys. It’s also not surprising to find young boys drinking alcohol and not much is done about it. 

“I thus found myself engaging in alcohol and drug use during my school days. Being able to leave all that behind, focus on art, and take up an opportunity to exhibit in one the biggest art spaces in the city, is, therefore, an achievement for me,” said Nyoni.

Like most artists, Nyoni’s art journey began at a tender age and took its shape during his days at high school. He said he always found himself in trouble with his family and teachers because of art.

“I was one of those students who didn’t pay attention in class and sometimes, I wouldn’t write my assignments. During lessons, I’d be busy with my drawings and this upset my teachers and family and I got punished several times.

“With time, my mom came to terms with the fact that I wanted to pursue art. Now, when I look back at how far I’ve come, my mom has been the most supportive person and I draw my motivation from her,” he said.

Nyoni was introduced to visual art by his brother Keith Zenda who assisted him in perfecting his talent. He taught him the basics of professional drawing and painting.

In 2022, Nyoni was part of the many artists who benefited from the National Art Gallery’s provincial outreach workshops that were aimed at equipping up-and-coming artists with skills for exhibition-fit artworks.

“I was part of the gallery’s workshops last year and I can safely say what I learnt there has helped me get this far. I exhibited at the gallery during a group exhibition titled ‘Sacrifice’. The exhibition opened doors for me and made the solo exhibition possible.”

He said he is excited and nervous about his solo exhibition.

“Through this exhibition, I hope to expand my audience and build a name that will be remembered in the history of art,” said Nyoni while adding that he wishes to inspire young boys from his community and mentor them to pursue visual art.