The narrative expectations and contradictions of the diaspora experience are the central subject of Zimbabwean-born (b.1985) artist Tafadzwa Tega’s socio-political portraits of immigrants and immigrant life.

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‘My work speaks to the struggles and dreams of the people of Zimbabwe. Political and economic instability over several decades has forced many Zimbabweans, including myself and some family members, to emigrate. Finding themselves in foreign countries – and, often, subjected to poor working and living conditions – Zimbabweans learn how to make ends meet while, at the same time, not forgoing ambition. These opposing currents – joy and desire on the one hand; exploitation and alienation on the other – often come to be represented in photographs. In these photographs, people dress their best; they choose glamorous settings for backgrounds; they pose. My paintings are based off of these photographs, conveying my countrymen’s resilience and determination to live (or, at least, to project) a better life.’

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Tega has participated in several group exhibitions and has presented solo exhibitions in Cape Town and Johannesburg, South Africa, as well as Lausanne, Switzerland. His work can be found in several prominent private collections, including the Leridon Collection, the Spier Arts Trust, Nando’s and the University of Cape Town. In 2023 he was acknowledged with the award for the best visual arts exhibition at the Aardklop National Arts Festival in South Africa.