SHUPAVU: Harnessing 'Artivism' to End Gender-Based Violence in Tanzania

Date: Friday, 13 December 2024

Artists at the SHUPAVU Art Exhibit — Some of the artists from the SHUPAVU exhibit with UN Women Tanzania Representative, Ms. Hodan Addou. Photo: UN Women

On 6 December 2024, the 'SHUPAVU' Art Exhibit was held alongside a joint UN dialogue on "Realizing the Promise of 2030: Accelerating Action to End Gender-Based Violence," in Tanzania, highlighting the transformative role of 'artivism' in ending violence against women and girls. Featuring 12 artists from across the country, the exhibit aimed to challenge harmful social norms, amplify the voices of survivors, and inspire action to address gender-based violence through the universal language of art.

Visitors, including government representatives, UN officials, civil society leaders, and youth, engaged with the artists on their work —including paintings, thread art, sketches, and an editorial cartoon— sparking meaningful dialogue on the power of the arts in driving societal change.

1. Albert Mlay - 'The Struggle'

painting by Albert Mlay with a girls eyes covered by hands

Through this piece, the artist aims to depict the silent struggles faced by many women and girls experiencing gender-based violence, with the covered eyes symbolizing the control and silencing often imposed on survivors. The girl's own hands on her chin signify resilience, introspection, and the courage to reclaim her identity. This artwork is a call to see beyond what is hidden, to listen to silenced voices, and to foster a collective commitment to end violence.

2. Pascal Masegesse – "The Red on Her Face"

Painting with a woman's face and a red hand over her mouth

The artist's piece conveys a poignant message about the scars left by gender-based violence. Using the color red as a central theme, the artwork symbolized both the scars of abuse and the resilience of survivors.

3. Brenda Kibakaya – "A Hard Reality"

Through the use of shadow and light, the artist illustrates the duality of pain and resilience, sparking conversations about the need for systemic change.

4. Masoud Kibwana – "Threads of Change"

Masoud Kibwana’s mixed media artwork features blue fabrics intricately woven together, symbolizing the collective strength of communities working to end gender-based violence. The piece aims to highlight the importance of unity and the interconnectedness of efforts to create meaningful change.

5. Lilian Munuo - 'Sauti za Mabadiliko' (Sounds of Change)

Girl holding up sign to preserve her dreams

Brimming with determination, the youth depicted in the artist's mixed media work symbolize both innocence and the far-reaching impact of gender-based violence. This powerful piece delivers a compelling call to action, underscoring the urgent need to safeguard the dreams and futures of our children.

6. Arnold Mamuya – "Shupavu" (Resilience)

"Shupavu," meaning resilience in Swahili, is a striking portrayal of strength and hope amidst adversity. The artwork features a young girl gazing forward with determination, her hands clasped in a gesture of reflection, while a white dove—symbolizing peace and healing—soars above her.

7. Excuper Charles - "The Parts Not Obscured"

Image of a girl with parts of the face obscured

Excuper Charles’ artwork, "The Part Not Obscured," delves into the hidden scars of gender-based violence. Through a dynamic interplay of shadow and light, the piece reveals the strength of survivors that often go unnoticed. It serves as a reminder that while some wounds are visible, others remain hidden yet profoundly impactful.

8. Sizya Damson - "Inner Pain"

Girl with someone holding her wrist and a butterfly nearby

Sizya Damson’s artwork, titled "Inner Pain," depicts a woman stoically gazing ahead as someone grips her wrist, symbolizing the struggles faced by survivors and a woman's power and determination to overcome her challenges. A butterfly flutters before her, representing hope and the promise of transformation.

9. Iddi Mikidadi - "Mutwa"

Combining the East African 'Khanga' fabric and paint, in "Mutwa" (the chosen one), the artist depicts a woman standing tall, poised to face any challenge that comes her way. Her defiant stance symbolizes the triumph of the human spirit over adversity, embodying resilience and strength.

10. Janet Mase - "Shosti"

'Shosti' represents a fellow woman and confidant—a trusted ally akin to a personal diary. These bonds enable women to share their joys, struggles, and stories, providing essential emotional support and solidarity. Through this piece, the artist highlights the power of community and peer support in breaking the silence around gender-based violence.

11. Alto Haule - Untitled

This sketch reflects the resilience and renewed hope that emerge amidst many challenges. Through its composition and symbolism, it portrays the strength of individuals who rise above adversity, finding ways to persevere and rebuild.

12. Mohammed Jumanne - Untitled

The editorial cartoon captures the collective efforts of the community in taking a united stand against violence. The image portrays individuals of varying backgrounds, armed with megaphones, pointing at a shadowy figure labeled “Ukatili” (violence), emphasizing that addressing violence is a shared responsibility, requiring solidarity, accountability, and active participation from all members of society.