AS the return of the Bulawayo Arts Awards (BAA) gathers momentum in Bulawayo, award winning photographer and cultural critic Mgcini Nyoni has stated that exposure that comes with the awards and events in Bulawayo doesn’t translate to opportunities.
His statement comes after artists and designers were encouraged toi form synergies that will see artists being dressed by local fashion designers at the awards ceremony touted as the ‘biggest dress up event’ in the city of kings and queens.
“Artists want to be dressed for free. In other countries it's something that works because when the artist mentions who dressed them, it translates into sales for the fashion designers. In Bulawayo 'exposure' rarely translates to opportunities. A proper awards look will cost at least $200,” he posted on his social media.
Events manager Mandipa Masuku said Bulawayo arts and artists live in isolation, and there was a need to catch up with others.
“I’m going to play devil’s advocate and say — Bulawayo cannot operate in isolation. We are isolated in what’s happening in the rest of Zimbabwe, which hinders growth of an industry in Bulawayo through investment," she said.
“This week is British Council Creative Week in Zimbabwe, and fashion and music are key topics. This is a great opportunity to amplify and collaborate with the council to maybe be a signature designer for BAA awards. There are other ways to gain revenue, other than waiting for a client,” she said.
Artist Bruce Ncube added his sentiments “I believe in the awards and I would love to watch the red carpet and see who dresses who,” he said.
“The Bulawayo Arts Awards for me are a great platform for all creatives, a place to network, connect and share ideas with others. I think we have amazing designers in the city that can do a stellar job and showcase what the city has to offer in terms of fashion. What would be a shame is to continually see them (designers) dress up other people and creatives from other cities and countries and I get it, they might be getting paid what they demand from those people who are why they do what they do,” he said.
- BAA unveils nominees
- Zim designer shines at Windhoek fashion week
- Mlalazi talks up power of cross
- Iyasa member speaks on arts life
Keep Reading
Following a year of anticipation due to a postponement, the BAA is set to return for their eighth edition on August 8, 2025.
