Artist Elizabeth Banda works on a life-size figure in Kapiri Mposhi, central Zambia, Jan. 26, 2024. (Photo by Lillian Banda/Xinhua)
by Lillian Banda
KAPIRI MPOSHI, Zambia, Feb. 8 (Xinhua) -- Elizabeth Banda, 53, from Kapiri Mposhi, central Zambia, is making waves because of her artworks.
Banda's artist journey began during her elementary school years over three decades ago. She vividly recalls the first time she laid her hands on clay, shaping it into various objects under the guidance of her teacher.
"I enjoyed making things from clay. As a young teenager, I spent a lot of time perfecting my skills and looked forward to producing great pieces of art," she said.
However, life's responsibilities took precedence, forcing her to set aside her artistic pursuits to prioritize being a homemaker. Banda married young and went on to have eight children, seven of whom have since died.
Nonetheless, fate had a different plan in store for her. An encounter with women involved in making clay pots and simple ornaments about a decade ago rekindled her passion.
Armed with her innate talent, Banda began her artistic talent anew. She turned part of her home into a makeshift art studio, where she spends much of her time making intricate objects from clay or cement mixed with sand.
"I realized that if I could create something out of earth, I could bring joy into people's lives and support my family at the same time," Banda said while working on a figure depicting a learner reading a book. The piece was commissioned by a school in the town of Kapiri Mposhi.
Her artworks, which cost 100-1,000 Zambian kwacha (about 3.7-37 U.S. dollars) apiece, range from figurines to intricate vessels, she said.
Banda's craftsmanship has caught the attention of many in Kapiri Mposhi, and her fame as a talented artist is inspiring young women and girls to consider venturing into the traditionally male-dominated art scene, including sculpting.
"Until now, I had never come across a woman who makes sculptures," said 16-year-old Cecilia Mwewa. "This has encouraged me to occupy spaces dominated by men."
Mary Mayondi, 17, lauded Banda for making a mark as the only female artist in Kapiri Mposhi involved in making life-size objects.
"Because of her, I am currently undertaking online lessons in art and sculpture-making. I intend to use the skills to earn a living," Mayondi said.
Kapiri Mposhi Royal Academy, one of the schools that have since engaged Banda to put up a life-size figure to add beauty to the surroundings, said the school administration has been inspired by Banda to introduce art as a subject.
"The idea is to equip learners with practical skills to enable them to be creative and possibly use art to earn a living, just as is the case with Banda," School director Martin Simusamba said. "Girls will be particularly encouraged to take up art to exploit their potential." ■
