Munyaradzi Chidakwa | Heavenly Havana
Summer may be over but that doesn’t mean one cannot search for a pocket of sun across the globe. That is exactly what Zimbabwean photographer Munyaradzi Chidakwa had in mind, escaping the European winter chill in favour of the tropical old world aesthetic of the Cuban capital, La Habana.
With a background in design, photography and poetry, the London based photographer was drawn to the mesmeric old capital, creating an enchanting photo-series capturing the places and faces of the Havana.
Inspired by the work of creative director Tudor Payne, and photographers Steve McCurry and Sebastiao Salgado, Chidakwa specialises in integrated creative campaigns creating strategy-driven solutions for renowned brands, leading agencies as well as international startups.
Working locally in London as well as internationally, Chidakwa’s goal is always the same; ‘create something direct, engaging, simple, witty and essentially memorable’.
The Ocean African spoke to the Zimbabwean photographer about his photo-series we’ve fondly dubbed ‘Heavenly Havana’:
THE OCEAN AFRICAN: What inspired the photo series?
MUNYARADZI CHIDAKWA: Cuba is filled with art and history. From people dancing on the streets to people selling street art. I was swimming in creativity as i walked through the streets of Havana. I was compelled to capture some of the beautiful moments and people I saw.
OA: Who are your favourite photographers?
MC: I love being a fly on the wall, documenting moments and emotions. These picture tell stories. I reference Steve McCurry and Sebastiao Salgado in my work. These days i find a lot of my inspiration on instagram and Magnum Photography.
OA: What inspired you to become a photographer?
MC: Photography came to me by chance! During my second year of university, I was mentored by creative director Tudor Payne. He had experience as a graphic designer and he helped me develop my raw skills into something great. In my final year of University (2012), Tudor invited me on a trip to both Niger and Indonesia to assist him and his DOP (Director of Photography) on a documentary filming expedition. Whilst on this trip I learnt to use the camera as both Tudor and Adam (DOP) guided me. I learnt how to grade and edit photos on this trip too.
I continued to work on documentaries with Tudor, travelling to Afghanistan, Yemen, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Kenya, Somaliland and Jordan. Whilst in London, I developed my photography skills shooting for Acoustic Live UK and doing brand, artist and event shoots along the way.
OA: What special projects are you working on?
MC: In 2017, I curated two exhibitions in Brixton. I am currently building content to have more exhibitions/art related experiences for myself and other artists to connect and express with each other. Watch this space…
OA: What was your favourite thing about visiting Havana?
MC: Being detached! Havana has limited internet and that felt good to me. I was detached from the outside world for the 10 days i was in Cuba. It was a breath of fresh air, walking around and not seeing people fixated by their phone. People wanted to talk. I got to connect with many people discussing politics, culture and history. The Cubans are very proud of their history. It’s painted throughout their streets and ingrained in the minds of both young and old. As an African man, I know for sure the importance of knowing your history. My favourite thing about Havana or Cuba as a whole was the people. I truly left inspired!
OA: Was there any particular event or incident that occurred whilst you were in Havana that will remain forever etched in your mind?
MC: Not particularly in Havana but in Trinidad, I rode a horse through the mountains from a waterfall through old banana and coffee plantations!
(All images courtesy of the artist)
Follow Munyaradzi Chidakwa on Instagram to see more lovely scenes from La Habana.