I have been blown away by the level of detail in this artwork, “Ghetto to Mayadi,” by 24-year-old Joshua Mujayi. This intricate cardboard caricature tackles inequality head-on by juxtaposing two contrasting realities side by side, separated by a road; Ku and Kwa.
The details are at once breathtaking and heartbreaking.
On the kwa and barren side, “The miniature pegs, clothes on the line, the out-houses and other rickety structures with random items on the roof - rocks, planks, old tires (Placing old tires on a shanty or makeshift roof is a common practice, primarily to add weight and stability against strong winds). On the other side: pavement, basketball court, double-story, brightly painted homes, spacious ‘green’ yards,” writes Lechwe Art Gallery, where the artwork is on display as part of the Cynthia Zukas Young Emerging Artist Competition.
In the fourth frame are former and last Norwegian Ambassador to Zambia, Arve Ofstad, and prominent painter, art lecturer, and arts administrator, William Miko, mesmerized by the piece.
Mujayi who is pursuing an Art Teacher’s Diploma at Evelyn Hone College, also does quick sketches and realistic paintings.
Over 73 works by young artists throughout the country are on exhibition at the Lechwe Art Gallery - free entry.
‘Ghetto to Mayadi’ is going for only K6,000. Ba LCC this is for you.