The portrait sought to highlight the importance of Mbuya Nehanda in the fight against colonization. Her role as a spirit medium spearheading morale and motivation assisted the liberation war heroes in their victory for independence. Nehanda (The Lion Spirit ) as a spiritual leader of the Shona people, led the first uprising against colonial rule in 1896.
Her inspiration in the struggle is unmatched, it’s the power of a heroine. This power is symbolized by the spear and her patriotic nature is represented by Zimbabwean flag cloth. The red background represents the dangers and risks taken by the liberaton war heroes and the artillery portrays a war zone.
Despite these risks, Mbuya Nehanda encouraged them fight and preserve our precious Zimbabwe.
A Heroine Is Watching
The potrait sought to highlight the reverence for Mbuya Nehanda in a contemporary setting. The painting shows the building and a new day in Modern Zimbabwe. This type of setting complements the erecting of the Mbuya Nehanda Statue in the City of Harare. The bright colours represent a new hope upon Zimbabwe. With her presence. Indeed her bones have risen again! Bringing her out as a huge figure watching over the city indicates boldly that she is the epitome of national heroism.
