Exhibition Review: *Imaginary Trip Part II* by Gosette Lubondo at Alliance Française de Bulawayo

On Friday, 4 April, I had the privilege of previewing Imaginary Trip Part II, an itinerant solo exhibition by Congolese photographer Gosette Lubondo. Hosted on its final leg at the Alliance Française de Bulawayo, the show—presented in collaboration with the Musée du Quai Branly - Jacques Chirac in Paris—offered a striking visual narrative that blurred the lines between memory, imagination, and historical documentation.

Lubondo’s work is deeply rooted in the exploration of collective memory, particularly in relation to colonial and post-colonial histories in Central Africa. Experiencing this exhibition transported me back to childhood reflections, making me think of how so many buildings and social activities in Bulawayo have lost their original meaning and purpose.

Imaginary Trip Part II continues Lubondo’s signature style of staged photography. She reanimates abandoned spaces—such as schools, railway stations, and colonial-era buildings—by placing solitary figures within them, often young women dressed in school uniforms. These hauntingly beautiful images evoke a profound sense of nostalgia while interrogating the enduring weight of history on contemporary identity.

The title itself suggests a voyage—not only geographical but also temporal. Through her lens, Lubondo guides viewers into liminal spaces where the past lingers and the future remains uncertain. Her use of natural light and muted tones enhances the dreamlike quality of each scene, making the images feel like fragments of a half-remembered dream.

The collaboration with the Musée du Quai Branly - Jacques Chirac underscores the global relevance of her exploration into cultural heritage, memory, and displacement. It also affirms the importance of platforms that amplify African voices in photography and contemporary art.

The success of this event was made possible through the generous contributions of the Embassy of Switzerland to Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, the French Embassy in Zimbabwe, and the Alliance Française de Harare. Their support reflects a growing recognition of the value of contemporary art in Bulawayo. Alliance Française de Bulawayo remains one of the few cultural spaces consistently promoting visual artists in the city by hosting travelling exhibitions and international collaborations.

Imaginary Trip Part II is more than just an exhibition—it is a meditation on time, place, and the ghosts of history that continue to shape our present. Lubondo’s ability to transform neglected spaces into poetic reflections on memory positions her as one of the most compelling voices in African photography today.

For those who missed the show in Bulawayo, one hopes this powerful itinerant exhibition will continue its journey, allowing more audiences across the continent and beyond to experience Lubondo’s evocative visual storytelling.

This was a thought-provoking and visually stunning exhibition. Please check with the Alliance Française de Bulawayo for future programming. Special thanks to the Director of the Alliance Francaise of Bulawayo Guillaume Ripoud for sharing this important show with our city. Check with Alliance first before visiting.

Response to the Challenges of Art Marketing in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe

 

The Visual Arts Indaba 2024 brought to light the pressing challenges faced by artists in Bulawayo, particularly in accessing sustainable markets for their work. As artists and stakeholders deliberated on actionable solutions, one key resolution emerged: leveraging digital platforms to bridge the gap between artists and collectors. In response, we have taken a significant step by creating an online platform to facilitate art sales for local artists, extending our reach to both local and international buyers.

The Launch of Bulawayo Art and Craft Online

On March 31, 2025, we will officially launch the Bulawayo Art and Craft Online—a digital marketplace on WhatsApp that allows art lovers and collectors in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe and worldwide to purchase artworks securely. This initiative marks a transformative moment in the way Bulawayo artists connect with their audiences, offering a simple, more inclusive and accessible model of engagement. The platform will debut with 10 carefully selected artworks, showcasing the diverse talents of our artists. Some pieces will be available for direct sales, while others will be open for bidding, giving buyers the opportunity to engage in a dynamic purchasing experience.

One of the biggest obstacles to art marketing in Bulawayo has been the lack of exposure to a broader market. Many artists rely on walk-in clients to their studios, local exhibitions and word-of-mouth sales, limiting their potential growth. By shifting to a digital marketplace, we can:

• Expand Market Reach: Collectors from across the globe can now access and purchase Bulawayo art with ease.

• Offer Secure Transactions: Buyers can confidently invest in artworks through a structured and transparent platform.

• Create Sustainable Sales Channels: Unlike sporadic exhibitions, this online platform provides a continuous avenue for sales and artist promotion.

• Empower Artists: By giving artists direct access to buyers, we reduce barriers and enhance their earnings.

How to Join and Participate

Joining the Bulawayo Art and Craft Online is simple. Art lovers, collectors, and supporters can become part of the platform by:

1. Requesting access via an official WhatsApp invite here

2. Browsing featured artworks and engaging directly with the artists.

3. Purchasing artwork either through direct sales or participating in live bidding sessions.

4. Receiving their purchased pieces through secure delivery arrangements.

The launch of this online platform is just the beginning of a larger vision. Moving forward, we aim to integrate more artists, expand the range of artworks available, and develop partnerships with international galleries and collectors. This initiative is a stepping stone toward placing Bulawayo’s vibrant art scene on the global map while ensuring that artists receive the recognition and financial stability they deserve.

By embracing digital transformation, we are turning the challenges of art marketing into opportunities. We invite all artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts to be part of this journey as we redefine the future of art sales in Bulawayo. Together, we can build a thriving, sustainable art market that benefits both creators and collectors alike.

Art Review: Matobo Goes Fashion… and Beyond Exhibition A Journey of Heritage and Innovation

The Matobo Goes Fashion… and Beyond exhibition, launched on January 17, 2025, at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, is a resounding testament to the ingenuity and cultural wealth of the Matobo District. This groundbreaking showcase marks the culmination of over a decade of efforts to preserve, celebrate, and modernize the artistic traditions of the region, particularly through the work of its women artists. From painted huts to fashion collections, this exhibition tells a powerful story of transformation, resilience, and creative evolution.

 A Historical Canvas The roots of this vibrant initiative trace back to 2010 when the National Gallery of Zimbabwe’s Outreach Program launched the "Gudula" project in Filabusi, Matabeleland South, under the guidance of the late Chief Maduna. This project was the precursor to the celebrated My Beautiful Home brand, which began in 2014 and was led by Veronique Atala founder of EKhaya Gaia Trust brought together a team comprised of Prof. John Knight (Architectural Advisor and Graphics/Writer), Violette Keetui (Writer/Editor), Dr Andre F. Van Rooyen (Environmental Advisor and Photographer), Pathisa Nyathi (Historian, Cultural Advisor, and Writer), Butholezi Nyathi (Workshops Coordinator and Field Researcher), Cliford Zulu (Art Advisor and Curator) to spearheaded the competition in partnerships with key stakeholders, including the National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Bulawayo (NGZB), Amagugu International Heritage Centre (AIHC with backing from local and international sponsors.

Organized annually in Matobo District, the competition has given women a platform to express their creativity, drawing inspiration from traditional motifs. The project’s impact expanded over the years, leading to the preservation and reinterpretation of these designs in other mediums. The initiative’s milestones include: The launch of Preservation of Ndebele Art and Architecture, a publication documenting the region’s rich artistic traditions supported by the US Embassy Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) in 2018, The From Huts to Pots program, supported by the German Embassy, which spotlighted pottery inspired by traditional hut designs in 2023, and now 2025: Matobo Goes Fashion… and Beyond – a landmark exhibition showcasing the transformation of traditional patterns into modern artistic expressions. Matobo Goes Fashion… and Beyond presents a dynamic array of artistic creations inspired by the women of Matobo. The exhibition features: Artworks, Fabric, Fashion and homeware: Intricate designs echoing traditional hut paintings are reimagined in contemporary garments and textiles. 

The use of vibrant colours and bold patterns reflects the cultural legacy of Matobo while positioning it as a contender in the global African print market. Locally the fabric can now be part of identity for the people of Zimbabwe. 

• Pottery and Homeware: Pieces such as flower pots bring traditional artistry into everyday utility, bridging the gap between heritage and modern lifestyles. 

• Furniture and Murals: Architectural elements and furniture designs infused with traditional motifs showcase the adaptability of these patterns across mediums. 

This evolution from huts to homes and beyond symbolizes not only a creative journey but also a deep cultural and economic transformation. Mastery and Community Impact Over the years, the women of Matobo have honed their artistic skills, embracing new forms such as pottery, fashion, and furniture. Their designs now have the potential to compete alongside established African prints while remaining firmly rooted in their Zimbabwean heritage. Beyond aesthetics, this initiative has had profound socio-economic impacts. 

The annual My Beautiful Home competition and subsequent projects have empowered women, providing them with platforms for artistic expression and hopefully, opportunities to earn a livelihood. The exhibition also highlights the importance of community development by ensuring the younger generation is inspired to continue this legacy. As The Collection takes Matobo artistry to new heights, it also raises critical questions about cultural appropriation, copyright, and equitable royalties. Ensuring that the women artists and their communities benefit fairly from their work is paramount to the sustainability of this movement. 

The journey of Matobo artistry, from painted huts to fashion collections, is a testament to the enduring relevance and adaptability of cultural heritage. As commerce and artistry intersect, this exhibition exemplifies how traditional designs can find new expressions, enriching lives and attracting global attention and appreciation for Zimbabwean Cultural and Creative Industries. Matobo Goes Fashion… and Beyond is not merely an exhibition but a celebration of heritage, creativity, and resilience—a tribute to the women of Matobo who continue to inspire the world with their art. It’s a vivid reminder of how deeply rooted traditions can blossom into modern masterpieces, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. 

Cliford Zulu is an Independent Curator and art critic who works in Bulawayo. As one of the founding members of the MBHand resident of Matobo district, he emphasizes the importance of balancing tradition with innovation. He envisions a future where Matobo designs are celebrated globally while remaining deeply connected to their origins. 

Read more: here