Visual Artist Calls for Equal Participation in the Arts Industry

Visual artist and art tutor, Noreen Nhemachena, is passionately advocating for greater participation of women in the arts sector, encouraging them to claim their space and push for equal recognition.

Currently based at George Emmanuel International School in Harare, Nhemachena has plans to set up her own art hub in her hometown of Mutare. Her goal is to empower women through art, particularly in a field that has been historically dominated by men. In an interview with The Herald Arts, Nhemachena shared her vision and urged women to overcome the barriers they face in this male-dominated space.

“I want to encourage women who are interested in art not to shy away from the practice,” she said. “Art is a sustainable industry if well-regulated. Although it is often seen as a male-dominated field, women should not feel discouraged to pursue their passions. We can level the playing field with determination and persistence.”

Nhemachena’s artistic journey began at a young age, drawing inspiration from her brother, whose sketches ignited her own passion for art. She started drawing in Grade 6 at St Joseph’s Primary School, slowly improving her skills and building her confidence. Her work began receiving positive feedback during her high school years, with her pieces featured in local newspapers.

Her passion for art led her to pursue higher education at Chinhoyi University of Technology, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Creative Art and Industrial Design. During this time, she gained further recognition when one of her portraits of Zimbabwe’s President, E.D. Mnangagwa, was featured in the media.

While Nhemachena has made her mark as a pencil artist, she remains eager to expand her skills. “I am currently exploring sculpting. There’s no limit to what one can do, and I am committed to continuously learning and growing in the field.”

Her long-term goal is to contribute to her community and demonstrate that art can be a sustainable livelihood for women. “Art has become a way of life for me. I want society to understand that women can thrive in this industry,” she said. “There should be no limit to how far the mind can go.”

Nhemachena’s drive to empower women and foster a greater appreciation for the arts reflects a broader call for inclusivity and recognition in all artistic fields. She remains resolute in her mission to inspire the next generation of women artists to pursue their creative passions.