The inaugural Cape Town edition of First Light, an exhibition showcasing emerging Zimbabwean artists, has concluded with resounding success, leaving audiences in awe of the raw and diverse creative energy emanating from Zimbabwe. Held at 61 Loop Street from 18 to 23 February 2025, the event drew art enthusiasts, collectors, and cultural commentators who were captivated by the sheer originality and depth of the works on display.
Speaking after the event, DPA.ART’s founder and director Milly McPhie reflected on the significance of the moment, emphasising the urgent need to bring Zimbabwe’s artistic talent into the global spotlight. “The highlight for me was seeing everyone’s reaction to the range of Zim talent. It’s so obvious that it’s still too hidden and needs more oxygen,” she said. “And the fact that these guys are mostly untrained, so their art isn’t touched or influenced by anything other than their own creativity.”
The exhibition not only provided a platform for these artists to introduce their work to an international audience but also challenged long-standing perceptions of Zimbabwe. For many attendees, First Light was an introduction to the country’s subcultures, a side of Zimbabwe that remains largely unseen beyond its borders. “People’s perception of Zim is very narrow – mainly because they’ve never seen or heard anything about it,” McPhie noted. “People were also blown away by seeing the subcultures of Zim.”
The overwhelmingly positive response in Cape Town has reinforced McPhie’s belief in the necessity of expanding this artistic dialogue. Plans are already underway to bring First Light to Harare, where local audiences will have the opportunity to engage with the exhibition on home soil. While the date is yet to be announced, the event promises to be just as impactful, serving as both a celebration and a statement of intent for Zimbabwe’s creative community.
The success of First Light highlights the urgent need for Zimbabweans, both at home and in the diaspora, to actively support and promote the country’s art scene. Zimbabwean artists possess immense talent, but without the necessary platforms and patronage, their work risks remaining unseen. The National Arts Council, along with the Ministry of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation, must play a central role in nurturing and elevating these artists by backing initiatives like First Light, ensuring that Zimbabwean creativity is not only recognised but also thrives on the world stage.
DPA.ART has established itself as a vital force in shaping the contemporary art landscape, offering mentorship and international exposure to Zimbabwean artists who, despite their immense talent, often remain overlooked. With its next chapter set to unfold in Harare, First Light continues to serve as a powerful testament to the ingenuity and resilience of Zimbabwe’s new generation of artists, ensuring that their voices are heard far beyond their borders.
