Caligraph uses celebrity graffiti in Covid-19 fight

Standard Style
Every neighbourhood has a hero and such prominent individuals are key in communicating important messages about the Covid-19 pandemic, rising graffiti artistes have said.

By Kennedy Nyavaya

Every neighbourhood has a hero and such prominent individuals are key in communicating important messages about the Covid-19 pandemic, rising graffiti artistes have said.

The Caligraph duo of Marcus Zvinavashe and Nyasha Jeche in association with Baobab Media have partnered Nash Paints to create Covid-19-inspired celebrity murals in and around Harare’s high-density suburbs to spread awareness and encourage people in communities.

In a follow-up to one with musician Jah Prayzah in Budiriro recently, the inventive pair, last week, did a Khama Billiat piece in Mufakose — where the football wizard grew up — and they are set to spread their wings nationwide.

“Our message to people is to adhere to social distancing, wear face masks and constantly wash hands,” Zvinavashe told the Standard Style.

“We are painting keys figures and role models in places where they come from so people can relate (and) our plan is to paint the whole of Harare, then move to other cities.”

Most of their colourful work, which is already turning heads in the city, will appear in public spaces including shopping centres, main roads, near schools and bus stops for a wider reach, Zvinavashe said.

“Murals are not only essential or limited to carrying educational messages only, but are also useful in beautifying spaces and bring colour.”

He called on sponsors to assist the currently self-funded campaign to expand their reach quicker and effectively.

“Willing partners can contribute anything from mural space, masks to distribute and anything that will advance this noble campaign,” said Zvinavashe.

“We also invite willing artistes, entertainers and socialites to join us in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic in our communities.”

The Caligraph duo of Marcus Zvinavashe and Nyasha Jeche in association with Baobab Media have partnered Nash Paints to create Covid-19-inspired celebrity murals in and around Harare’s high-density suburbs to spread awareness and encourage people in communities.

In a follow-up to one with musician Jah Prayzah in Budiriro recently, the inventive pair, last week, did a Khama Billiat piece in Mufakose — where the football wizard grew up — and they are set to spread their wings nationwide.

“Our message to people is to adhere to social distancing, wear face masks and constantly wash hands,” Zvinavashe told the Standard Style.

“We are painting keys figures and role models in places where they come from so people can relate (and) our plan is to paint the whole of Harare, then move to other cities.”

Most of their colourful work, which is already turning heads in the city, will appear in public spaces including shopping centres, main roads, near schools and bus stops for a wider reach, Zvinavashe said.

“Murals are not only essential or limited to carrying educational messages only, but are also useful in beautifying spaces and bring colour.”

He called on sponsors to assist the currently self-funded campaign to expand their reach quicker and effectively.

“Willing partners can contribute anything from mural space, masks to distribute and anything that will advance this noble campaign,” said Zvinavashe.

“We also invite willing artistes, entertainers and socialites to join us in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic in our communities.”