Story by Bruce Chahwanda, Political Editor
Zimbabwe is seeking to deepen cultural diplomacy with Italy as the country participates in the 60th Biennale International Art Exhibition in Venice.
The 60th Venice Biennale International Art Exhibition brings together more than 300 artists from across the globe.
Zimbabwe is well represented at this year’s edition with breathtaking exhibitions which are attracting art enthusiasts as they depict the rich history of the country, heritage and mineral deposits.
Vice President Kembo Mohadi is expected in Venice this Monday, cementing the government’s commitment towards supporting the sector.
“The visit to Venice Biennale by Vice President Kembo Mohadi is very important for the country because he is present here, he is affirming the role being played by our talented artists who are displaying world-class artefacts that have drawn famous and world art collectors. Some of them are already buying here, and some are also coming to Zimbabwe to buy.
“Secondly the importance of this international event is that it raises awareness among our youth who are unemployed and some who are already trying to find their path in arts. To them, we say the National Gallery is your place where you can find help to link with the international community of artists. Also, the government has invested a lot of money in this in support of our artists. So we are grateful and very pleased that the Vice President is coming to grace this exhibition,” said Mrs Caroline Matipa, Zimbabwe’s Deputy Ambassador to Italy
The exhibition offers an opportunity for Zimbabwe to cultivate cultural diplomacy with the works on display depicting the country’s heritage.
“It boosts our tourism because people who are coming here also obviously want to come to Zimbabwe to present their work here. If we promote art to a certain level where the majority of youth work with capacity, take up this trade, it’s a way of job creation for those who are with the talents.
“And lastly, I want to just appreciate our highly talented artists for the work that they are doing. It’s a world class and it’s putting Zimbabwe on the international map in terms of art and culture. I think the last one is that we are talking about cultural diplomas, which are very important for us as a country. And what I have seen is that each work speaks of a story of where we are coming from and where we are going. And that is our humanity as Zimbabweans,” she said,” she added.
Zimbabwe is leveraging the platform to explore areas of mutual interest with the heritage and arts industry in Italy.
