Solomon raises awareness of GBV using art

Bedfordview-based visual artist Solomon Mugutso is using his art to take a stand against gender-based violence (GBV).

The Zimbabwe-born artist is having a solo exhibition at AGOG Gallery in Maboneng, which will close on November 27.

“The exhibition is about creating awareness. It can be challenging for men to raise their voice against the scourge of violence against women and children. The expo also highlights the strength and beauty of women,” said Mugutso.

He believes the arts can speak to people about social ills.

“My artwork covers a range of issues, such as displacement, socioeconomic issues, GBV more. I would like people, especially men, to see the damage they have caused women and the implications thereof on society.”

His exhibition is aimed at inspiring men to take their roles as providers and protectors seriously and create a safer South Africa for women and children.

The self-taught artist has experimented with different mediums over the years and discovered sand to be his preferred medium, which he has used in this exhibition.

Mugutso said sand was even more fitting for this exhibition because of what sand represents to him.

“Considering how fractured our society has become, gender violence and displacement, I chose to use sand as a metaphor to remold and rebuild. I think the souls of those affected lay in the sand and I believe that by putting together the sand particles, an awe-aspiring beauty unfolds, allowing us critical engagement and celebration,” said Mugutso.

Mugutso was recently received the Most Recommended Artist Award at the Rosebank Rotary GTC 2019 Awards.

When the artist is not creating beauty, he is teaching art to aspiring young artists from disadvantaged communities.

Last year, Mugutso gifted founder of 67 Blankets for Nelson Mandela, Carolyn Steyn, a painting of her with Nelson Mandela as a way of celebrating Madiba’s 100th birthday.

For more information on the exhibition contact 076 520 0140.