Norval Foundation opens exhibition entitled “Tanda rima”, presenting works by leading contemporary Zimbabwean artist Portia Zvavahera, on Tuesday, 17 February 2026 at 6pm, as part of the Investec Cape Town Art Fair (ICTAF) programming.
Harare-based artist Portia Zvavahera is internationally recognised for her deeply expressive, rhythmic paintings that move fluidly between the physical and the spiritual worlds. Her works give visual form to her dreams, memories and lived experiences, creating richly layered works infused with colour, symbolism and emotional intensity.
“Norval Foundation is pleased to present an exhibition of works by Portia Zvavahera, following on her institutional shows in the USA, Germany, France and beyond. Opening during a busy period for the local art industry and kicking off an exciting week filled with a number of high-quality exhibitions and programming for the Cape Town Art Scene, we trust that local and international visitors alike will find resonance with Zvavahera’s vivid imagery and themes inspired by core human experiences, including life and loss”, shares Caroline Greyling, Norval Foundation Museum Director.
The title of the exhibition, Tanda rima, translates loosely from Shona as “Chase away the darkness”, which builds on the artist’s 2023 Cape Town exhibition “Pane rima rakakomba” (“There’s too much darkness”). Rooted in the language in which the artist lives, thinks and dreams, the exhibition reflects an intimate and vulnerable narrative shaped by themes of motherhood, care, spirituality and transition.
The exhibition will include three new works, among them Gamuchirai minamato (“Receive my prayer”), depicting figures gathered in communal prayer beneath a tree, and Nzimbo tsvene (“A holy place”), which introduces angelic figures guiding souls toward divine sanctuary. These works were inspired by prayers for the artist’s grandmother and reflect a desire for protection, peaceful passage and spiritual illumination. A recurring luminous tree motif reinforces themes of sanctuary, hope and transcendence.
Tanda rima is curated by Tayla Hollamby, with special thanks to the entire Norval Foundation team. Norval Foundation extends its sincere gratitude to Portia Zvavahera, as well as to the team at Stevenson, with particular thanks to Sophie Perryer and David Brodie for their generous support.
Key dates
Private Exhibition Opening Date: 17 February 2026
Open to public: 18 February 2026
Venue: Norval Foundation, Cape Town
Website: www.norvalfoundation.org