"HOBHO"
This body of work was part of my first solo exhibition at Artillery Gallery Harare in 2022. Being my first show, I was compelled to present a mixed showcase that drew a lot of reference from cultural influences. As a Tsonga, one thing that is famous for Tsonga people is the “Xibelani” Skirt, which is mostly worn during dancing festivals. For me, the show was a joyous and reflective moment as it announced my presence to the art world. In my culture, Xibelani is worn during celebratory or significant events. The colorful skirt, with its many pleated lines and wavelength of colors, became a source of inspiration. I named my show "Hobo," which is a Shona word that speaks of abundance or excess. I had a lot going on and felt that I needed to present the evidence of abundance in both the number of works and the subject matter. Like the Xibelani skirt my work was both colourful and varied in subject matter.
