Last week, artist Owen Maseko was arrested. I read the news on This is Zimbabwe site and since I appreciate Maseko’s work and respect his commitment, it was impossible for me not mentioning this arrest.
From This is Zimbabwe site:
Owen Maseko the world famous Zimbabwean artist has been arrested. His crime? He dared to be bold. Maseko opened his exhibition last night at the Bulawayo National Art Gallery, an artist’s impression of the harsh reality of Gukurahundi as well as the decades of oppression and violence that have characterised Zimbabwe. In a combination of graffiti, 3D installations and his painting Maseko unflinchingly dared to tell the truth, adding his usual and whimsical element of humour. Visit his website here.
Voti Thebe, the person in charge of the Bulawayo National Arts Gallery, was also arrested.
Stand up for the freedom of expression in Zimbabwe and help free Maseko. He is being held at Bulawayo Central Police Station, charges have not been made but they are refusing to release him. Because he has been arrested on a Friday, Maseko is likely to spend the whole weekend in one of Zimbabwe’s filthy cells.
As of today (Sunday 28th), Maseko is still in jail but he should be released soon. In theory. Because things should be more complicated for him after this arrest. We will see next week, meanwhile keep an eye open (well, both eyes even better) on this case.
Free expression is essential, even more for an artist. Owen Maseko needs our full support because free expression and freedom of speech should never be denied to anyone.
