Reloaded and Moving on

Dear Friend, 2020 was a pivotal year, not just for me, but for many in the Culture and Creative Industry (CCIs). Zimbabwe's challenging economic and political climate, coupled with the decline of our tourism sector, has made it increasingly difficult for artists to thrive. For those of us who rely on our artwork as a primary income source, this has been a stark reality. As I navigated these turbulent times, both as an employee of the National Gallery of Zimbabwe and as an artist, the onset of COVID-19 unexpectedly reignited hope. Digital platforms became a lifeline, offering new avenues to reach clients and audiences. It’s incredible to reflect on how technology has opened up opportunities to connect with buyers and enthusiasts globally, even when local markets dwindled. Like many artists in Bulawayo, my training was tailored to serve a thriving tourist market. When that market collapsed in the early 2000s, it forced many of my peers to emigrate or abandon their craft altogether. My own journey took a different turn. In 2006, I was invited to join the Friends of the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, leading the Visual Arts Development and Outreach Program supported by HIVOS. This role allowed me to nurture my passion for art while finding ways to sustain myself. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have been instrumental in reconnecting me with the global art community. They’ve also revitalized my practice, inspiring me to chart new paths forward. Today, I’m excited to share two projects that have become central to my creative journey: Centre for Contemporary Arts Bulawayo (CCAB): This initiative embodies my work as a curator and arts administrator, fostering collaboration and innovation in Bulawayo’s vibrant art scene. Zulunlimitedart: This is my personal studio project where I showcase my work as a sculptor, carver, and scrimshaw artist. It’s a space where my artistic voice truly comes alive. The past five years have been a period of immense growth. While being an institutional curator was a role I deeply cherished, my dismissal in June 2021 became a turning point, prompting me to refocus on my independent projects. I’m thrilled to be dedicating my energy to CCAB and Zulunlimitedart, both of which reflect my evolving identity as an artist and curator. I’ll continue to share updates on these projects here, but I also invite you to follow my journey on Facebook, where I share more about my work and experiences. Let’s stay connected and keep the conversation going. Warm regards, Cliford Zulu