BUKHOSI MZIKAYISE NYATHI
Bukhosi Nyathi is an independent artist whose creative journey began at the Mzilikazi Art and Craft Centre, immersing himself in a myriad of art forms such as ceramics, sculpture, pottery, and eventually finding his passion for fine art drawing and painting. From 2005 to 2006, during his two-year tenure at the center, he honed his skills and received a certificate in fine art, marking the beginning of his artistic pursuit.
Following his time at the Mzilikazi Art Centre, Bukhosi was recommended by the institution to work at the Bulawayo National Art Gallery as a young practicing and emerging artist. Collaborating with Fisani Nkomo in a shared studio, he thrived in a stimulating artistic environment. His active participation in group exhibitions like the VAAB (Visual Art Association of Bulawayo) in 2007 and the Umthwakazi Arts Festival in the same year showcased his talent and dedication.
In his quest for artistic growth, Nyathi embarked on a transformative journey to South Africa, where he discovered Funda College. Enrolling in 2008, he dedicated three years to studying for a Diploma in Fine Art, focusing on drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, and the history of art. Throughout his time at Funda College, he actively engaged in group exhibitions and workshops, venturing into mediums such as mural painting and mosaics, expanding his artistic repertoire.
Bukhosi Nyathi's artistic practice revolves around the exploration of socio-political issues, delving fearlessly into themes of power abuse within his works. Through painting and linocut, his preferred mediums, he draws inspiration from his surroundings, capturing the essence of his environment. Although he has not yet held any solo exhibitions, his participation in numerous group shows in both Zimbabwe and South Africa has left an indelible mark on the art scenes of both countries.
In 2016, Nyathi was selected for the RMB Fresh Produce peer mentorship program with Assemblage, showcasing his work at the prestigious Turbine Art Fair. Noteworthy group exhibitions have also featured his art, including "Freedom and Responsibility" at Museum Africa in 2009, the "Beyond Borders" exhibition at the Soweto Hotel and I-Zart Gallery in the Netherlands in 2011, and the "Black Like Us" exhibitions in 2012 and 2013. His artistic journey has been punctuated by active participation in events such as the Johannesburg Art Week in 2015 and the August House Open Studios in 2017.
Beyond his personal practice, Bukhosi Nyathi extends his artistic endeavors to impact others. He served as an artist-in-residence at Room 13 in Sapebuso Primary School, Soweto, where he facilitated art classes and led a mural project involving students and members of the community. Regrettably, the COVID-19 pandemic prematurely concluded his residency in January 2020.
Nyathi's unwavering commitment to his craft and his ability to use art as a tool for commentary and reflection are evident in his body of work. His artistic process draws from his surroundings, dreams, intuition, experiences, and conversations, all contributing to his quest to comprehend and elucidate our interactions with the world and the metaphysical realm. Themes such as power abuse, religion, and the experiences of marginalized communities resonate throughout his creations, provoking thought and discussion about the human condition.
With dreams, nature, people, spirituality, and socio-political issues serving as his greatest inspirations, Bukhosi Nyathi continuously strives to create art that deeply engages viewers, invoking introspection and contemplation. Through his work, he seeks to unravel the complexities of our shared existence and spark dialogue about the human condition.
As he evolves as an artist, Bukhosi Nyathi aspires to participate in solo and group exhibitions in the future, further enriching the art world with his unique perspective and unwavering dedication to his craft.
