'Breakthrough,' an art exhibition featuring 13 works of visual artists Yves Protegene Manzi and Josue Mugisha, commenced on January 20 at Sundays Art Hub, Kibagabaga.

The showcase not only highlights the artists' breakthroughs but also offers insights into areas that individuals should consider breaking through in an increasingly less social world, dominated by technology.

Running until January 24, the exhibition delves into themes such as the journey to success and the challenges encountered along the way. Both Manzi and Mugisha are graduates of Ecole d’Art de Nyundo.

Manzi, also known as Manzi YP Art, specialises in pencil drawings, storytelling, paintings, digital illustrations, and comics. The exhibition features seven of his artworks, categorised into three parts: reflections on personal hardships, sources of motivation that propelled him forward, and guidance for aspiring individuals.

One of his artworks titled "Destructive Paradise" represents a personal story of facing hardships. The artwork depicts a woman's face with broken features and flowers emerging from her head, with another figure inside.

"I linked the piece to times when I tried to block away problems, comparing them to growing trees with roots that, if ignored, could become destructive,” said Manzi, urging viewers to confront problems early to avoid later complications.

He highlighted the use of pencils in his drawings, aiming to challenge the misconception that the tools are only for writing. The goal is to introduce the idea that anything can be turned into art.

Discussing his style, Manzi mentioned his combination of hyperrealism or realism with dream-like elements. He also incorporates aspects of nature to convey a message about its beauty.

From the exhibition, he anticipates that viewers will acknowledge the dedication put into his pencil artworks and aims to stand out with his distinctive style, setting himself apart from others in the field.

His plans involve continuing to challenge artistic norms and promoting the idea that everything can be turned into art.

Josue Mugisha, showcasing six artworks, emphasised their importance in challenging people’s negative thoughts and embracing constructive ideas beneficial to society.

"This is a period where some people experience depression, and fostering positive thoughts is crucial for ensuring a brighter future," he said.

Among Mugisha's exhibited pieces, one titled 'Artificial Knowledge Leading the People' portrays two arms generating light between them.

Explaining the inspiration behind it, he delved into the impact of technology on social connections, noting that as technology advances, people tend to become less connected in real life.

He warns that without proper control and limits on artificial intelligence technology, it has the potential to take the lead instead of being led by people.

Mugisha also incorporates cages and horror-like figures in his artworks, a unique element he says adds a layer of creativity to his pieces.

"If you want to break through from negative thoughts, you first need to identify them. That's why I portray those thoughts as horrors, showing people they need to be confronted and dismantled," he explained.

The artist dedicated a month to creating the works, intending to establish connections and sell pieces during the exhibition.

Looking ahead, Mugisha plans to persist in his artistic pursuits, striving for both local and international recognition. He also seeks to broaden his skills and specialise in sculptural art.

Breakthrough art exhibition welcomes visitors from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Sundays Art Hub in Kibagabaga until January 24.