I was born for this: Artwell Muzimba
PASSION, perseverance and determination is what made Artwell Muzimba achieve his dream of starting and running his own printing and art company.
By virtue of his name Artwell felt he was destined to be a great artist, as his name literary means art well.
Born in Shurugwi in the Midlands Province, Artwell says he was passionate about art and drawing from a tender age.
“My talent was identified by my teacher while I was still in primary school doing Grade Three, I put more attention when it came to drawing in class and I always had neater drawings in class. At secondary school level, I continued drawing and began sign writing as I labelled classroom blocks and signs around the school. This was when I decided that I want to pursue art on a professional level,” said Artwell.
After realising that he was good at what he did the artist says he planned to earn money out of his drawings.
“Since then I never stopped dreaming of starting my own business but unfortunately because of the rural environment and family setup I did not have any knowledge on how to start my own venture. After completing my Ordinary Level it was when I came to Bulawayo where I sharpened and perfected my skills and since then my art work became exceptional.
“Because I knew I was good at what I did the remuneration I got for my work was not good enough and it was not what I expected. Coincidentally the company I worked for after college had my painting on display. It broke my heart knowing that the tourists who bought the painting were looking for my contact details but unfortunately, they could not get in touch with me. So, I thought to myself had I sold the painting myself they would have been directly linked to me. I then worked only for two years and then resigned to start my own venture,” said Artwell.
He noted that establishing his own company was not hard because of the passion he had.
Artwell went on to tell this publication the challenges he faced in the industry.
“Since I had the passion to start my own business, I had the drive. Wanting my own business is what motivated me to strive through all that came my way and I made sure that reach my goals. Finally, I formed my company in 2000 called the Artwell Designs, it is now a registered and well-established company. We won the ZITF overall best stand designer award in 2007 and 2009 for the Harare Agricultural Show, Mine Entra only to mention a few. The company is now heavily equipped with machines and as a result we have improved efficiency.
“The challenges we face mostly are economic challenges and these are hinged on the current economic situation in the country, hence we go through ups and downs because of unavailability of capital as banks do not give out loans. Our future plans are to purchase our own premises to cut on costs of paying rent and I want to get more machinery and equipment for the company. I appreciate the support I get from my family, friends and all the companies we have worked with,” he said.