Visual artists revel in Live Art Battle
Six visual artists showcased their talent and skill in a painting contest dubbed Live Art Battle organised by Zaluso Arts over the weekend.
Cris Taulo, Thandiwe Phiri, Chinsinsi Matiya, Alinafe Chipungu, Ivy Mitayi and Allain Bulld’or took part in the art contest at Zaluso Arts’ hub in Area 47 in Lilongwe.
In the first round the artists were given a task to come up with creations on either An African Christmas or Myths and Legends. In the final round they were given the freedom to do a painting of their choice on any theme.
After an hour-long live painting session, the artists had to explain to the audience the basis of their creations. Later, the audience voted to identify the best artists.
At the end of the contest, Phiri emerged the overall winner and she walked away with a shopping voucher worth K50 000 courtesy of Stationery Zone, a spot for her painting at Kaliso Art Gallery , a bottle of wine from Lush Café and a K100 000 cash prize from the organisers of the contest.
According to a statement from Zaluso Arts, the event gave the participating artists an opportunity to showcase their skill and innovation in an intricate process of artistic creation. The organisers said the participants were selected through portfolio submissions.
In an interview yestrday, coordinator of the contest Mphatso Makamu said the organisation is committed to grow its network by creating more opportunities for collaboration. She said the initiative is the beginning of an ongoing commitment to recognise and uplift artists in the country.
“The hub’s vision is to go beyond being a physical space, but to be a dynamic system where artists can not only showcase their talent, but also engage in meaningful partnerships,” she said.
On her part, Phiri said although every artistic creation is subjective, art needs to be something that gives meaning and that people can relate to. She said she felt honoured to be chosen the winner among her equally qualified peers.
She said: “It was overwhelming. I thought I was going there just for fun and to mix with my fellow artists, but to emerge the winner brought a special feeling. It was such a sweet surprise.”
Phiri is a graphic designer by profession and has expanded her art to visual art by self-teaching herself through online tutorials.
She is credited for having created the artwork for Lawi’s Thirties album. Phiri has participated at the Zomba City Festival and Sunday Soiree, among other platforms.
