In a world often focused on the challenges facing young people, it is crucial to highlight the enormous value they bring to society. Huddons T. Naison, a gifted pencil artist and recent Industrial Design graduate, embodies this potential. His journey from a passionate amateur to a recognized artist showcases how youth can inspire change and create opportunities through their creativity.
How it Began
Huddons’ journey began during the 2020 lockdown, a time that forced many to seek solace in creativity. With mentorship from George Billionaire Munengwa, Huddons learned not only the technical skills of creating portraits but also how to make money from his craft. This determination to turn passion into profession is a powerful testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that many youths possess today.
“I want to elevate Zimbabwean art globally,” Huddons states, emphasizing his commitment to changing perceptions about the “starving artist.” His ambition reflects a broader trend among young artists who seek to redefine success and inspire their peers to pursue creative careers.
Huddons focuses on creating portraits, where his attention to detail and storytelling abilities shine brightly. Each piece he gives life goes beyond mere representation; it encapsulates the emotions and narratives of his subjects. His impressive portfolio includes portraits of South African icons like Muzi Mthabela and Zimbabwean luminaries such as Baba Harare, Winky D, and Madam Boss. This work not only enhances his credibility but also serves to inspire other young artists to pursue their dreams.
“My portfolio showcases impressive personnel, including celebrities and entrepreneurs. Some recognized personas include portraits for South African icons Muzi Mthabela, Nonhlahla Mnisi, and Kelly Khumalo, as well as Zimbabwean celebrities like Baba Harare, Winky D, Shingie Fundira, Dr. Rebecca Manford, Mr. George “Billionaire” Munengwa, Dr. Rinos Mautsa, and Madam Boss. My art is international, reaching far and wide to destinations like the UK, USA, and China.”
His skill is thorough, involving hours of refinement to ensure that every subtle expression and texture is captured. “Patience and practice are key,” he notes, depicting the dedication that often characterizes youth pursuing their passions.
Acknowledgement and Growth
Winning the Excellence Award in Portraiture from the All-National Enterprise Excellence Awards marked a significant milestone in Huddons’ career. “It’s surreal to see my passion and dedication acknowledged,” he shares. This recognition has not only elevated his profile but has also opened doors to new opportunities, allowing him to connect with fellow artists, galleries, and collectors.
Huddons exemplifies how youth can reshape their narratives through creativity. His story demonstrates that with hard work, determination, and support, youths can override obstacles and achieve their goals.
Navigating Challenges
Similar to many young creatives, Huddons faced challenges early in his journey. Convincing his family to support his career in art was intimidating. However, by proving that he could generate income from his craft, he gained their support. Balancing artistic pursuits with academic responsibilities was another challenge, one that required careful time management and determination.
“I faced significant challenges. Convincing my parents to support my passion for drawing was daunting, despite their initial encouragement. I had to demonstrate that art could be a useful and sustainable profession.
“The transformation came when I started generating income from my craft, supporting my decision. Another hurdle was balancing art and education. It required tremendous effort to reassure my family that pursuing art wouldn’t compromise my academic performance. Financially, investing in quality supplies was a struggle. However, with persistence and growth, my business eventually became self-sustaining.”
Huddons’ experiences depict a common reality for many youths: the struggle to pursue passion while navigating societal expectations. Yet, it is through these challenges that resilience and innovation flourish.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Huddons T. Naison is more than just an artist; he is a source of light for young people everywhere. His experience exhibits that creativity can be a strong tool for change, encouraging others to follow their passions and break the prejudice against Zimbabwean youths.
By being involved in exhibitions and engaging with the community, he not only displays his work but also paves the way for future generations of artists.
*image source : Huddons T. Naison
