Today we’d like to introduce you to Richie Madyira.
Hi Richie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My name Is Richie Marley Madyira born and raised in Harare capital city of Zimbabwe.I was always fascinated about drawing since l was young,l used to make car of wire from a young age.Then my dad started to pay for me drawing lessons at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe and later on applied and get bursary to study art..I started exhibiting my work at Delta gallery,then around 2009 l moved to South Africa to pursue my dreams and career due to economic hardship in my country
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No to be honest it has not been soon as a full time Artist it no easy to make end meet especially in a foreign country.It’s not easy to sale art or even to get in the space which can sale and promote your work
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My work explores identity, memory, and self-expression through the language of fashion, style, and the visual archive. I draw inspiration from the evolving nature of dress, from the revolutionary styles of the 50s, 60s, and 70s to today’s reimagined silhouettes and position the Black body as both subject and storyteller.
Through my paintings, I delve into Black Dandyism as a mode of resistance and celebration. I am fascinated by how colour, cut, and fabric communicate confidence, pride, and personal history. The boldness of a wide-legged Revo jean, the height of a heeled shoe worn by men, or the textures of African fabrics often associated with roora (bride price) ceremonies, all speak to layers of identity shaped by tradition, aspiration, and social commentary.
My colour palette is deliberately vibrant reflecting how we feel when we rise each day with intent and presence. I pair this colour with black-and-white photographic references to highlight contrasts in skin, class, and perception. These images serve as both homage and critique, anchoring my subjects within a legacy of visibility denied and reclaimed.
My practice is rooted in the working-class experience, yet styled with elegance and defiance. Fashion, to me, is not just clothing-it’s a wearable archive, a way of rewriting history, of honouring those who came before while imagining ourselves anew.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
The risk l did take is becoming a full time artist because if you don’t sale it’s become very difficult as artist to create because you need money for materials and your well being as well
Pricing:
- 300
- 1000
- 1500
- 4000
- 10 000
Contact Info:
- Instagram: richie_madyira_studios
- Facebook: Richie Madyira
- Twitter: Richie Madyira
Image Credits
Richie Marley Madyira
Tatenda Madyira
