Artists muse over Malawi’s potential, setbacks for growth of industry

It is common knowledge that many artists in Malawi are not adequately supported or promoted.

The visual arts industry is no less affected.

Many artists in visual arts circles, for example, do a really professional work using locally available resources.

And they do so with utmost dedication and passion. But they are less rewarded for their effort.

Some of the artists we have interviewed complain about facing a range of challenges in the industry, but key among those that inhibit their progress in the industry is financial problems.

But they persist on with their paint, pencils, board, cotton and timber which are the key instruments for their productions each day.

Blessing Sabiti has been in visual artistry for about 10 years now. He admitted that the field lacks motivation as one spends a lot of time over a product that brings in less gain.

“I have been trying to venture into other things but I find myself back in this field again. So, I have resorted to managing events that would promote exhibitions and exposure among artist,” he said.

On November 5, in collaboration with Pa Kachere management, Sabiti organised an exhibition in Zomba for visual artists, among other artists.

Over 15 artists displayed their work and there was a generally attractive audience and amazing products on show.

To add colour to the event, the exhibition was accompanied by music performances by Zomba-based artists who played different music ranging from Jazz to African beats.

The musicians included musician Liz BK, real name Beatrice Kadyamphungo who did ‘Loliwe’, originally done by Zahara, before doing ‘Emlanjeni’, a track done by Mafikizolo.

Another artist, Igwee, performed cover tracks such as Peter Chidzanja-Nkhoma’s ‘Amolotoni’ and ‘Chambo’, originally done by Mulangeni Sounds in the 90s.

Chanco Television’s journalist, Gracious Mulinga, described management of the event as professional.

“The show has been organised by a local artist but it managed to pull such an audience. It has been entertaining to people of Zomba,” he said.

One of the local bands that put up an impressive performance is Mwakaneriwa Band.

The band shows a great promise for the future in music and its performance raised the excitement a notch higher.

One of the members of the band, Zitha Ngudeyi, said it was exciting for all members of the band to perform at the event.

“We are going to deliver if we are to have a performance at a high level concert. Our band has that courage and skills to deliver but resources and exposure sometimes have affected us,” he said.

A fan, Magret Chimpita, was excited to dance cover songs led by Igweee that included ‘Chambo’ and ‘Amolotoni’.

She said the art exhibition in general and the accompanying music performance in particular were memorable as they provided full package of entertainment.

A well-versed hand in entertainment circles, Kalinga Moda, popularly known as DJ Moda, said what artistic events in Zomba lack is the power of advertising.

“Promotion is key to crowd pulling. If at all we use locally available resources through media like Yoneco FM, Times Group and Chanco Community Radio, who are easy to contact since they have offices in Zomba, it would be different situation for these events,” he said.

Moda, who is known for powering a range events such as political rallies, weddings, entertainment and talent exhibition with his sound equipment, added that Malawian artists have the potential of breaking national boundaries.

“There is potential among artists in this country. Visuals artists, for example, are capable of extending their impact across the world.

“What they need is support for promotion of their work through tourism events such as Sand Music and Hangout festivals and other ways,” he said.

Inge Storm, owner of the Pa Kachere venue, said they will play host to everyone who’s got talent to manage events and show their art.

“We have been hosting events like Zomba Arts Festival. This is a clear indication that we know how to welcome visitors from across the nation and abroad,” Storm said.

In 2023 alone, Zomba has played host to a number of arts and entertainment shows which include the Zomba Arts Festival and another when Zomba Gymkhana Club celebrated 100 years of existence.

Slowly, Malawi’s old capital is becoming a host of arts and entertainment events that are attracting attention from people.

For reggae artist, Ndindi Marley, Zomba has a potential of hosting a series of entertainment shows.

“You have seen performances of different players in the music circles, visual artists and how their potential is in delivering excitement. It means a lot when artists describe music as their career through such wonderful performances,” he said.

Surely, exposure and delivery of these performances means a lot to the artists in terms of showcasing and unearthing talent.

It begins with passionate efforts like the one by Sabiti and Pakachere management.