Creative expression
Lubuto has created rich programs that foster the development of creative skills. The programs’ facilitators themselves were vulnerable youth, and the empathy they thus bring to their work with Lubuto’s children is unique in its effectiveness.
Many vulnerable children, particularly those who are deaf, are limited in the ways that they can express themselves, and for some, art can provide a life-changing means of self-expression. The visual arts are one of the most rewarding means of communication, learning and self-expression for all young people. However, many young people in Zambia do not have access to the materials, training, and support necessary to develop their artistic talent.
Lubuto’s art program is designed and taught with children and youth in mind. It nurtures and develops creativity in young people and enriches their lives with a true appreciation and understanding of art. Youth in this program acquire skills in artistic expression through color, line, shape, space, texture, form, and design. Participants’ successes, growth, and creativity are supported by teachers and peers. Perhaps most importantly, Lubuto provides opportunities for young artists to develop their talent and gives them a mode of expression—a way to communicate their stories and thoughts to the wider world.
LubutoArts participants have held gallery shows in Lusaka (Henry Tayali Gallery and elsewhere) and even in New Orleans, USA at the Stella Jones Gallery (where our art teacher Enesto sold his first painting to actress Angela Bassett). Lubuto’s artists regularly participate in national programs such as those of the stArt Foundation and Art4Art. Many have sold their first artworks through these events and have developed livelihoods in the arts.
Drama education is not widely available to young people in Africa. For most LubutoDrama participants, this program provides the first and often only opportunity to engage in drama and performance.Acting and performing are important forms of self-expression which allow children and youth to tell stories, both fictional and nonfictional. Giving children a voice, drama can help vulnerable youth find a sense of identity.
Lubuto’s drama program includes improvisation, collaborating together to develop scripts and produce plays, adapting books and stories for performances, and more. The young actors build props, make costumes, learn lines, rehearse and perform for the community at Lubuto Library public performance spaces.
The drama program instills confidence in participants, giving them opportunities to express their opinions and have their voices heard. Some participants have gone on to act in films and TV. Two boys were cast in a footwear commercial in Lusaka, and two others were featured in the award-winning and internationally celebrated film I Am Not a Witch. These and other opportunities have generated livelihoods for youth with their acting skills and set them on a path to stable employment.
