The Incredible Talent of Zimbabwean Artist Portia Zvavahera

12.5.20

The Incredible Talent of Zimbabwean Artist Portia Zvavahera

Portia Zvavahera was born in 1985 in Juru, Zimbabwe. Now based in Harare, the artist has held residencies in India, England, South Africa, as well as her home town. Ms. Zvavahera has also represented Zimbabwe at the 55th Venice Biennale. One can only imagine how much more we will see of her talents. Her work is beautiful and her imagery vivid. She doesn't compromise with colour. Instead she uses it to her advantage pointing out the delicateness of her figures. Nothing is as clear as it seems even in the paintings which exude a brilliant colour scheme. Figures appear with wings, while some others in white dresses. Her style of painting is bold and confident, striking even. One wishes to know more about her, her work, as well as Zimbabwe. But much remains to be deciphered. The media-shy artist doesn't reveal too much. The figures with wings suggest a spiritual side of her work. While other subjects are not as clear. You can only guess by the titles that not all of her work has a positive spin. Ms. Zavavahera has solidified her place as an artist to reckon with and we can only wait and see what else she has in store for her audience. She is represented by Stevenson Gallery in South Africa.

1. Gliding on My Knees to Heaven, 2019