The Story of Merilyn “Lyn” Mushakwe, Art Curator, Researcher and Writer

Growing up as the eldest of three in Harare, Zimbabwe, I was a tomboy extraordinaire, with two younger brothers and surrounded by a crew of male cousins from both my mom’s and dad’s sides.

My father worked in Telecommunications as an expatriate in different countries, which added a touch of wanderlust to our lives with his frequent overseas escapades. Some of my fondest memories ever involve him traveling back to Zimbabwe, us meeting him at the airport with my Mom, and the short but beautiful few days we’d spend with him. He had fully accepted that he had a tomboy daughter, so every time that he bought clothes, he would buy three of each item in different sizes and colours, for myself and my two younger brothers. I fondly remember that it was quite a shock to him when I started asking him to stop buying sneakers and start buying me sandals and skirts instead (laughs).

Despite the common perception of ‘broke artists,’ I boldly pursued a degree in Fine Arts at the University of the Witwatersrand (WITS) in Johannesburg. Guided by my faith as a Bible-believing Christian, I felt a sense of peace amidst the fear and doubt, trusting that my dedication to my gifts and passion would lead to success.
While the Fine Arts programme presented both challenges and opportunities, I initially struggled to find my place within the field. I felt like I was merely treading water, unsure of my direction and fit within the broader artistic landscape.

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