Artist Kudzai
Chicago based Visual Artist, Kudzai B. Mutasa, is a Beauty Brand Manager, Encourager of Women and Community Advocate. Born in Zimbabwe, Africa, Kudzai made her way to the United States at age 4 and has found a way to share her talents and experiences to inspire others. Kudzai has a way of connecting with her audience in a genuine way.
She has managed major beauty brands such as ORS Olive Oil, Fashion Fair & VO5. Kudzai is an award-winning artist, the Stellar Award Pre-show and Radio Announcer Trophy Model, and has been a moderator at T.D. Jakes MegaFest. Currently, Kudzai is an MBA candidate at Northwestern Kellogg. She has a desire to speak around the world and believes her best work has yet to reach the canvas. She seeks daily for ways to use her gifts for the betterment of humanity.
Artist Statement
I continuously strive to cultivate the diverse gifts that have been given to me by God. My purpose as an artist is to have people look beyond stereotypes that culture presents and search for solutions to everyday problems. I create concepts and designs inspired by music, culture, worship, and my life experiences. The canvas allows me to communicate encouraging messages, educate, celebrate the beauty and allow people to re-examine limited views. My artwork is a reflection of my spiritual journey, wherein each painting I discover and reveal another part of life.
The body of work is presented, because at times it gets hard to "speak life" over my future. But, I find that when I "paint life"... I am then able to speak it and empower others to do the same." -Kudzai
Vision Statement
“Using the visual arts to educate, empower and encourage others by touching their spirit and celebrating the diversity in life. To motivate and challenge others to discover, develop and utilize their natural talents and gifts in life for the betterment of humanity.”
Curriculum Vitae
EDUCATION
MBA Candidate, Northwestern Kellogg, Evanston, IL
BS, Marketing, DePaul University, Chicago, IL
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HONORS
2002-2005 & 2010 - 2012
Art Scholarship, Evanston Cultural Arts Center
PROFESSIONAL ARTIST SINCE 2009
2010 - 2014
Semi-Finalist - National Juried Competition,
Russell Simmons Bombay Sapphire Artisan Series
SELECTED EXHIBITIONS
Essence Music Fesival Louisiana, NO
Harlem Fine Art Show New York, NY
Harlem Fine Art Show Merchandise Mart in Chicago, IL
DuSable Museum, Chicago, IL
Macys Herald Square, New York, NY
National Black Fine Art Show, New York, NY
South Side Community Art Center
Chicago Artist Month, Chicago, IL
Tom Joyner Cruise
Delta Gallery De'stee
Gerald Griffin Gallery Interiors, Chicago, IL
Murphy Hill Gallery, Chicago, IL
Black History Month, Valparaiso University IN
National Urban League Conference, Chicago, IL
Christ Universal Temple, Chicago, IL
Salem Baptist Church, Chicago, IL
Northern Trust Corporate Headquarters, Chicago, IL
