The National Gallery of Zimbabwe is thrilled to present Chinotanga Mutsara, a solo exhibition showcasing the captivating paintings, drawings, and prints of artist **Mercy Moyo**. This exhibition contributes to the ongoing dialogue about identity, community, and shared experiences, highlighting the resilience and stories of the people she encounters. Throughout her artistic journey, Moyo has employed a distinctive visual vocabulary composed of universally resonant motifs that depict everyday scenes—women laughing, resting, conversing, braiding hair, and engaging in various activities. Inspired by the communities she has lived in, Mercy Moyo’s lush brushstrokes, paper collages, and evocative linework create moments of suspended joy. Her deliberate and precise line work carries intention, whether it defines a figure’s contours or suggests movement, with each stroke conveying emotion, energy, and narrative that invites viewers to connect with the stories behind her art.
There is a rhythmic quality to Moyo’s line work, flowing seamlessly across the canvas and connecting disparate elements, mirroring the interconnectedness of human experiences. She masterfully balances intricate detail with simplicity, allowing viewers to appreciate fine features up close or step back to view the overall composition. Her work weaves narratives that elevate the ordinary into the extraordinary, inviting exploration of the strangely familiar and the boundless possibilities embodied by her figures. Central to Mercy Moyo’s artistic practice is a remarkable fusion of figurative and painterly work, establishing her as a key figure in Zimbabwe’s contemporary art scene. **Chinotanga Mutsara** not only showcases her unique artistic voice but also enriches the cultural tapestry of Zimbabwean art. Join us at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe to experience this profound exploration of identity and community through the lens of Mercy Moyo’s evocative artistry.
Fadzai Veronica Muchemwa
Harare, July 2024
