WHEN Zimbabwean visual artist Keith Zenda arrived in India for the Indo-African Artist Summit in May, he carried more than brushes and canvas.
He carried stories, symbols and a uniquely African perspective through which to explore centuries-old connections between two regions linked by heritage, spirituality and resilience.
The Domboshava-based artist and owner of the ArtGal Zim in Domboshava represented Zimbabwe at the Indo-African Artist Summit, held from May 20 to 25, where participating creatives were invited to interpret the theme, India Through the Lens of Africa.
Working alongside artists from across the continent, Zenda produced two large-scale mixed-media works exploring shared cultural values, community life and spiritual identity.
Nominated through the National Gallery of Zimbabwe and the Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture ministry, Zenda was among artists tasked with creating works inspired by themes including indigenous cultures, nature and wildlife, spirituality, women and community, sustainability and unity through diversity.
“The summit celebrated the deep cultural, historical and spiritual connections between India and Africa,” he said.
“My paintings looked at India through African eyes, highlighting the values and experiences that unite our peoples.”
Among the works exhibited was The Mystery, a mixed-media composition exploring spiritual traditions shared across cultures.
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Dominated by a crimson veil illuminated from within, the artwork reflects humanity’s enduring search for meaning and faith.
Textured layers, shadowed figures and symbolic imagery invite viewers to reflect on the unseen dimensions of belief that transcend geography.
Another work, Breaking Free: Pot of Unity, draws on Afro-surrealist influences to examine liberation, identity and historical memory.
The painting depicts a fractured clay pot symbolising colonial disruption, while emerging figures celebrate freedom and cultural renewal.
An elephant, a powerful symbol in Indian culture, reinforces themes of wisdom, strength and continuity.
Beyond the summit exhibition, Zenda also produced a hyperrealist pencil portrait of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during cultural engagements linked to broader India-Africa exchanges.
Known for detailed graphite and charcoal portraiture, the artist said the work reflected the spirit of cultural diplomacy and people-to-people connections.
“Art creates dialogue beyond politics,” Zenda said.
“It allows people from different nations to connect through shared humanity.”
His participation also highlights the growing role of grassroots arts initiatives in Zimbabwe.
Through ArtGalZim Centre located at Mverechena, in Domboshava, which he founded and directs, Zenda mentors emerging artists while promoting rural heritage preservation and creative entrepreneurship.
Rooted in the philosophy “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo”, Shona for a nation is built by its own people), the centre provides opportunities for young creatives outside traditional urban art hubs and contributes to efforts to preserve local cultural narratives through visual storytelling.
For Zenda, the experience in India reaffirmed art's ability to transcend borders.
As Africa and India continue strengthening cultural, economic and diplomatic relations, artists remain among the most effective ambassadors of shared identity.
Through colour, symbolism and imagination, Zenda’s work demonstrates how creativity can build bridges where geography once drew boundaries.
