A hidden truth...
In plain sight.
By Nyadzombe Nyampenza
There are no ‘’self-evident’’ truths in Zacharaha Magasa’s serial sculpture, Confluence of Realities. The artist insists that his work presents an idea to initiate dialogue. Upon reflection his seemingly decorative pieces reveal a somber reality.
Magasa’s work is made out of rubber wound into abstract designs with familiar motifs. Binding over twisted steel, the overrunning material turns it into a disturbing contorted mass. Cleaned and polished, redeemed car and bicycle tires assume a new role. The materials are bestowed with a sleek finish and ornamental function far from their previous disposition. A historical background to the materials can allude to trying times, followed by transformation. Probing for a literal interpretation of the work however, yields very little. The work gives up its ‘dark’ secrets to mindful observation.
When people are not moved by facts and evidence, they can be swayed by demagogues. Disagreements would lead to fights, and entrench biased perception. Magasa’s work prompts viewers to begin a conversation that starts by questioning what they see.
