MSU Capstone Art Exhibition Showcases Emerging Creative Talent and Innovation

Midlands State University’s (MSU) Department of Multimedia, Graphic Design and Editing, under the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, hosted its Capstone Art Exhibition on 26 October 2026 to showcase final-year students’ artistic talent, technical skills and creative innovation through physical artworks and multimedia productions.

The Executive Director of the Research and Innovation Division, Professor G. Mehlana, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the power of visual storytelling in communication, cultural preservation and national development.

“We live in an era in which communication has become one of the most powerful forces shaping societies, institutions, economies, and human relationships,” Professor Mehlana said.

He emphasised the ability of visual communication to convey complex ideas effectively in an increasingly image-driven world.

“A powerful image can communicate what a thousand words may struggle to express.”

Professor Mehlana underscored the importance of creativity in driving development and societal transformation.

“Creativity, therefore, is not a luxury; it is an essential instrument of communication, development and national transformation,” he said.

The exhibition featured diverse artworks and multimedia productions addressing contemporary issues, demonstrating students’ ability to apply their academic knowledge and technical skills to creative practice.

The Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, Dr. V. Matunhu, commended the department for nurturing talent and connecting artistic expression with innovation and entrepreneurship.

“This exhibition highlights the transformative role of the arts in communication, innovation, cultural development, and entrepreneurship while showcasing the immense potential of our students.”

Mr P. Mushango, a lecturer in the Faculty of Arts and Humanities highlighted the students’ professional readiness and their potential to contribute to the creative sector.

“The works on display reflect the creativity, professionalism, and technical excellence that our students have developed throughout their studies and their readiness to contribute meaningfully to the creative sector.”

In his closing remarks, Professor Mehlana encouraged students to recognise the broader value of their portfolios as evidence of their creativity, technical competence and understanding of the world.

“Your works are more than academic assignments submitted for assessment; they are evidence of your ideas, your imagination, your technical competence, and your growing understanding of the world.”

He also called on stakeholders to support emerging creatives through mentorship, internships, partnerships and exhibitions that connect graduates with industry opportunities.

“When we invest in young creatives, we invest in ideas; when we invest in ideas, we invest in innovation; and when we invest in innovation, we invest in the future of our nation.”

Through practical learning, research and innovation, MSU continues to equip students with the skills to contribute to Zimbabwe’s creative economy, industrialisation and modernisation.