By Staff Reporter
Harare – The Southern Africa Political Economy Series (Sapes) Trust on Saturday unveiled a captivating three-month exhibition titled “Essence of Africa: Visionaries, Voices, Culinary, and Cultural.”
The event marked the grand relaunch of the iconic Pan Afrika Restaurant in Harare.
Curated by Sapes Trust director Ibbo Mandaza, the exhibition showcases a diverse range of African art, including sculptures, portraits of influential leaders, nature and wildlife paintings, and culinary delights from across the continent.
Mandaza expressed his vision for the restaurant: “We really wanted to relaunch the Pan Afrika Restaurant as a space that celebrates creativity and culture and what better way to do it than celebrating some of Harares most talented visual artists.”
“This multisensory exhibition celebrates the artistic expressions and cultural legacies that have shaped the Pan African movement.
“We really wanted to relaunch the Pan Afrika Restaurant as a space that celebrates creativity and culture and what better way to do it than celebrating some of Harare’s most talented visual artists,” added Mandaza.
Mandaza underscored that the combined relaunch of Pan Afrika Restaurant and the art exhibition is a significant stride towards fostering a deeper appreciation for African art and culture.
This synergistic approach according to Mandaza reinforces Pan-Africanism by creating a vibrant hub and dynamic space that celebrates African creativity and heritage.
“Pan Afrika has always been a space that promotes the creative and cultural sector and this exhibition will showcase the versatility of the space as not only a restaurant but as a cultural hub,” said Mandaza.
“The exhibition is happening now because we are in the events’ season in Zimbabwe where many people are looking for different cultural experiences.
“We are in a time where there is a lot of change happening in Africa and now is the time for us to forget our borders and unite and change the narrative of Africa being a poor continent but a continent that is rich in culture, creativity and resources,” he added.
The exhibition, which runs for three months, offers art enthusiasts the opportunity to purchase original pieces, directly supporting the talented artists involved.
Mandaza said as Africa undergoes significant change, it “imperative that we challenge negative stereotypes and embrace our continent’s rich cultural heritage.”
“This exhibition is a step towards that goal,” added Mandaza.
The Pan African Restaurant, renowned for its commitment to promoting African culture and cuisine, is now poised to become a leading cultural destination in Harare.
