Lionel Mbayiwa at Nando’s Creative Exchange

Nando’s Creative Exchange (NCX) aims to recognise emerging South African fine artists who demonstrate exceptional ability and help them take the next steps in their careers. We spoke with Lionel Mbayiwa, one of the chosen local artists for the programme.

INTERVIEWED BY Gina Dionisio PHOTOS Supplied

Nando’s Creative Exchange (NCX) is the flagship artist development programme within the Nando’s Art Initiative. It aims to recognise emerging fine artists from Southern Africa who demonstrate exceptional talent. The programme provides these artists with the support they need to advance their careers to the next level.

Each year, the Spier Arts Trust selects four artists and a mentor for Nando’s Creative Exchange (NCX) programme, which includes mentorship, material sponsorship, and a group exhibition. The latest exhibition, The Promise, featured Lionel Mbayiwa, Rentia Retief, Kenneth Shandu, and Madeleine van Manen.

We spoke with Lionel to find out more about his Nando’s Creative Exchange journey.

Can you describe the central theme or message in your work for this year’s Nando’s Creative Exchange exhibition, The Promise? How does it connect to your overall artistic journey? 

When I left Zimbabwe in 2009 to come to South Africa, I promised my parents, childhood friends, and myself that I would return soon with a better lifestyle. However, I’ve become comfortable here and now feel like a visitor in my own country while not being fully accepted in South Africa. 

Your practice involves a range of materials and techniques. How do you decide which medium to use for each piece, and what role do they play in conveying the messages you want to communicate? 

Some of the mediums I’m using today started as experiments, and the techniques were initially mistakes. However, I’ve managed to combine those early experiences with my current skills, allowing me to reflect on my journey. This is evident in my artwork, where I scratch the surface to excavate my past. 

How has your background and upbringing influenced the themes you explore in your art, especially in the context of socio-economic or environmental issues? 

Growing up in a rural village taught me humility and instilled in me strong morals and values, such as love, sharing, caring, and respect for nature and our ecosystem. These values have stayed with me to this day. 

Art can often serve as a mirror to society. How do you think your work challenges or reflects the current socio-political and environmental issues in Southern Africa? 

I come from a tumultuous political background, which influences my artwork. I’ve realised that many African leaders are selfish and don’t prioritise the needs of their people. This is reflected in my piece, which critiques the enormous gap between the powerful and the rich in South Africa.

The NCX programme offers not only exposure but also mentorship and support for professional growth. In what ways has this experience influenced your perspective on the business side of being an artist? 

The programme has come at the right time in my life, offering exposure, connections with other artists, and international recognition through Nando’s. The mentorship has been invaluable in helping me produce new work, which, although different, speaks to a cohesive narrative. 

Can you tell us about a specific piece in the The Promise exhibition that holds personal significance for you, and what its creation process was like? 

“Kumira negumbo rimwe” is a Shona proverb meaning “Standing on one leg.” It’s used to describe situations where people are tired or running out of patience with leaders who fail to deliver good governance. I wish our leaders could be given a red card, like in sports, so they can leave their positions and allow new leaders to fulfil their promises.  

Looking ahead, what are some of the goals you have for your art career in the coming years? How do you envision your practice evolving and impacting your community or the art world? 

Moving forward, I plan to collaborate with women in tapestry, host workshops in my studio to showcase my techniques and continue working hard to expand my network and career.

Spotlighting South African Talent

Many of the artists who have taken part in NCX have gone on to great things. For example, Tafadzwa Tega, NCX artist from 2019, has exhibited in Milan, Italy, and at the Cape Town Art Fair, where his exhibition – Zumbani – was a sell-out success.

Other NCX alumni, including Robyn Pretorius, Nkosinathi Quwe (2024’s mentor) and many others, have used the programme to catapult their careers to new heights, with their works being included in various local and internal exhibitions and art fairs, such as the 1-54 Africa art fair in London, as well as selling into various well-respected collections. | nandoscreativity.co.za

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