Hope Masike, Sabina Mutsvati & Nyasha Gurure Reimagine African Power Through Art

Following a spectacular opening night that drew a full house and glowing reviews, the exhibition Ndishonongoreiwo by acclaimed visual artist Sabina Mutsvati has birthed a groundbreaking new collaboration. Fusing music, fashion, and photography, the project features mbira songstress Hope Masike and celebrated artistic photographer Nyasha Gurure in partnership with the National Gallery of Zimbabwe.

By Plot Mhako

The creative alliance gave new life to two standout pieces from the exhibition — Varoora and Vamwene — avant-garde dresses made from traditional African brooms. These wearable sculptures were reimagined in a powerful photo series starring Hope Masike, bringing to light not only the beauty of African artistry but the deeper narrative of womanhood.

“These dresses are a symbol of the power that we carry as African women,” said Mutsvati. “We should not be told otherwise. We are bearers of great wisdom, power and strength.”

Gurure, known for her evocative visual storytelling, drew inspiration from the spiritual essence of the pieces. “The dresses made me think of early morning queens,” she said. “That’s why I shot one from a bird’s eye view, with a sunrise light feel. I wanted to capture the sacredness of that moment.”

Masike, who embodies the essence of Afro-centric creativity, was elated to collaborate with kindred artistic spirits. “These are women who create beyond limits and speak truth to culture through art,” she shared. “This collaboration celebrated African identity, the mbira, and the power of African women. Many thanks to the National Gallery for enabling this convergence of expression.”

The National Gallery of Zimbabwe provided an open canvas for the shoot, affirming its role in supporting cross-disciplinary creativity. Curator Fadzai Muchemwa reflected on the project’s deeper message: “Ndishonongoreiwo is an act of care and a refusal. Through collaborations like these, we’re reminded that institutions, too, can be transformed when we allow them to be unsettled.”

What emerged from this union of visual, sonic and conceptual art is more than a photo shoot — it is a celebration of culture, identity, and womanhood. It is a bold, beautiful proclamation: African women are creators, storytellers, and queens.”