Another central theme in Farai’s journey is his commitment to sobriety, a choice that, for him, serves as a path to artistic purity and enhanced creativity (something that may feel in contrast to the narrative of artists being inspired while under the influence). “I feel like I can achieve 20 times more in a 24-hour period than I ever was able to when I was getting high, or going out for drinks with friends.” In embracing sobriety, he has unlocked a level of productivity and creative clarity that has allowed him to produce what he considers some of his best work.
Influenced by creators like Vince Staples and Tyler The Creator, he now sees sobriety as a channel to his most authentic self-expression. And in terms of his art? Well, you’ll have to judge for yourself. However, having been fortunate enough to see this idea grow into what is now shown at Origin Art gallery, from the initial meeting in Farai’s studio a few months back, I know just how special this event is. It is uncommon for South African artists to present such a diverse range of work, in the way that Farai has done so with the ‘Masks of Modernity’, and it will come as no surprise if the show is referenced regularly in the future as a turning point in the way the country experiences this intangible thing us humans call ‘art’.