Empowering women through art: National Art Gallery calls for submissions
Bekezela Dube
In a vibrant call to action, the National Art Gallery of Zimbabwe has launched its third edition of “Vital Voices: Accelerate Action,” an exhibition dedicated to celebrating and amplifying the creative expressions of women artists.
Scheduled in honor of International Women’s Day, this initiative not only showcases talent but also serves as a powerful platform for advocating gender equality and social justice. The theme “Vital Voices: Accelerate Action” is a clarion call for urgency in the battle against gender disparities. It encourages artists to harness their creativity to spotlight issues such as empowerment, solidarity, and the resilience of women.
The organizers emphasize the necessity for immediate action to dismantle barriers that hinder women’s progress, making this exhibition more than just an art show; it’s a movement. Eligibility extends to women artists from Bulawayo, Midlands, and Matabeleland South, aged 18 and above, whether they are emerging or seasoned in their craft. The gallery welcomes submissions in all artistic mediums, fostering a diverse collection that underscores the varied experiences and stories of women.
Artists are required to submit a current artist statement and biography, images of up to three artworks, details including materials used, dimensions, price, and year of creation. Artworks should resonate with themes of empowerment, gender equality, and social justice, capturing narratives of hope, achievement, and unity. Selection will be rigorous, focusing on relevance to the theme, artistic merit, and cohesion with the overall exhibition.
Notifications for successful submissions will be sent via email by February 28, 2025. Submissions can be sent via email to sabona@mweb.co.zw and kafadzwa@gmail.com or hand-delivered to the National Art Gallery. The deadline for entries is set for February 25, 2025. One of the organizers, highlights the significance of this event: “We aim to not only exhibit art but to ignite a conversation, inspire action, and empower women through the universal language of art. This exhibition is a testament to the strength and creativity of women in Zimbabwe, and we’re eager to see the transformative works that will come from this call.”
This initiative by the National Art Gallery of Zimbabwe is not just an exhibition but a beacon of empowerment, inviting all who attend to engage, reflect, and act towards a more equitable society.
