Africa Basel Conversations

One of the most engaging conversations SMO Contemporary Art had the privilege of participating in this year took place during the inaugural Africa Basel Art Fair in Basel, Switzerland, where Sandra Mbanefo Obiago joined internationally acclaimed Zimbabwean artist Moffat Takadiwa for the opening panel discussion titled "Can Art Reshape Ecology?"
The conversation explored the evolving relationship between art, sustainability, and environmental responsibility, examining how contemporary artists are responding to some of the most pressing ecological challenges of our time. They reflected on the capacity of art not only to raise awareness but also to inspire new ways of thinking about consumption, waste, and our collective responsibility to the planet.
Renowned for his intricate and materially rich practice, Takadiwa transforms discarded post-consumer materials into large-scale wall-based and freestanding sculptures of remarkable complexity and beauty. Through painstaking processes of collecting, sorting, and weaving these materials together, he reimagines what society discards, revealing the hidden value and stories embedded within objects often considered worthless. His work challenges conventional ideas of consumption while drawing attention to the environmental consequences of global consumer culture.
During the discussion, Takadiwa reflected on how his practice is deeply rooted in both environmental consciousness and the lived realities of contemporary Africa. His sculptures demonstrate how creativity can transform waste into powerful visual narratives that speak to resilience, regeneration, and hope. The conversation resonated strongly with audiences attending Africa Basel, reinforcing the role of artists as critical voices in conversations around ecology, sustainability, and social change. It also highlighted the importance of creating international platforms where African artists and cultural leaders can contribute meaningfully to global discourse.
SMO Contemporary Art remains committed to fostering dialogue that extends beyond the gallery, connecting art with the urgent cultural, environmental, and social questions shaping our world today.