Harare, Munich partner for first-of-its-kind art e...

Harare, Munich partner for first-of-its-kind art exhibition: ‘Bicycle Instead of Car’

Philemon Jambaya

ASSISTANT EDITOR

In a unique initiative to raise awareness about climate change, the City of Harare is partnering with the City of Munich, Germany, to present the “Bicycle Instead of Car” exhibition.

This ground breaking project will feature art installations created by seven Zimbabwean artists commissioned specifically for Harare’s Central Business District. The exhibition coincides with World Bicycle Day on June 1, 2024 and will be on display for two days.

The exhibition aims to spark conversations about the environmental impact of cars and encourage residents to adopt cycling as a sustainable mode of transportation. This creative approach aligns with the City of Harare’s goals of reducing traffic congestion and air pollution.

The project exemplifies the strong partnership between Harare and Munich, twin cities for over 25 years. German artist Markus Heinsdorff co-curates the exhibition alongside Zimbabwean artist CaliGraph.

Together, they assembled a team of talented Zimbabwean artists including Gerald Bakasa, Thandiwe Gula-Ndebele, Sandra Ndoro, Crystal Beseni, Maxwell Chembedzi, and Ngaatendwe Mapako.

Strategically located near Copacabana for maximum visibility, the exhibition leverages the power of art for its accessibility and ability to resonate with a wide audience. The artists will use various abstract art media to deliver a message that transcends language barriers.

By placing art at the centre of climate change discussions, the “Bicycle Instead of Car” exhibition aspires to inspire positive action towards a more sustainable future. The City of Harare hopes to encourage residents to embrace cycling and contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment.