Lionel Mbayiwa

Lionel Mbayiwa, born in 1982, is a Zimbabwean artist from the Shona tribe. Raised on his family farm in Mhondoro, Mabira, in the Chegutu District, he experienced a deeply rooted rural community life. In Shona culture, the land holds more than physical value—it is seen as sacred, intertwined with identity, history, spirituality, and ancestral presence. Mbayiwa’s work explores this spiritual bond, portraying land as a vessel of ancestral energy and a symbol of continuity and protection.

Central to his art is oral storytelling, a cornerstone of Shona tradition used to preserve history, pass down knowledge, and connect generations. Through myths, folktales, and legends, the Shona maintain a collective memory that shapes their cultural identity. Mbayiwa draws on this heritage, using his art to bridge past and present, celebrate creativity, and affirm cultural values.

His work reflects how cultural heritage can guide individuals through modern challenges, offering moral clarity and a sense of belonging. By preserving and sharing these traditions, Mbayiwa inspires others to embrace their roots and contribute to a more ethical and connected society.

Due to economic and political turmoil in Zimbabwe, Mbayiwa and his family relocated to Cape Town, South Africa. This migration underscores the global struggle of maintaining cultural identity in unfamiliar environments. His art stands as a powerful reminder of the strength and guidance found in one’s heritage, especially in a world marked by uncertainty and change.