Kuda Rice: A Poet’s Journey Through Words, Fashion, and Visual Storytelling

 

Kuda Rice: A Poet’s Journey Through Words, Fashion, and Visual Storytelling

When you think of Zimbabwean creativity, Kuda Rice's name shines like a beacon of hope and artistry. A poet, storyteller, model, and creative director, Kuda is redefining what it means to be a modern-day Renaissance artist. His journey is a masterclass in passion, resilience, and the sheer power of storytelling.

For Kuda, the journey began with a love for art and communication. “I started as a dancer,” he reflects, “but poetry opened my eyes to a unique way of expressing myself.” From the rhythm of the dance floor to the cadence of spoken word, Kuda discovered his gift for weaving words into emotional tapestries. This love for storytelling soon expanded beyond personal narratives to crafting visual stories and directing projects for others.

His poetry became the foundation for all his other pursuits—fashion, filmmaking, and creative directing—all of which are extensions of his storytelling. “At my core, I’m a storyteller,” he explains, and every medium he explores becomes another way to share a narrative.

Balancing his many roles might sound overwhelming, but for Kuda, it’s seamless. “These art forms feed into each other,” he says. From modeling to creative directing, each role reflects a facet of his storytelling. Fashion becomes a visual poem, and every video he directs feels like a scene from a larger story.

Take his YouTube channel, for instance. It’s not just a platform—it’s a gallery. “I wanted to depict poetic stories visually because some people connect more deeply with images than words,” Kuda shares. Inspired by his love for film, he’s created short clips and collaborations that breathe life into his poetry, touching audiences far beyond traditional literary circles.

Kuda’s work with artists like Takura has been transformative. These partnerships have shattered preconceived notions of where poetry belongs. “I’ve learned that poetry doesn’t have to stay in niche spaces—it can thrive in commercial art too,” he says. His collaborations have shown him how to merge literary elegance with mainstream appeal, making his art accessible to wider audiences.

For Kuda, live performances are where magic happens. “It’s raw storytelling,” he says. “The audience sees my emotions in real time and experiences my stories with me.” This direct connection fuels his passion, turning every performance into an intimate exchange between artist and audience.

Kuda’s relationship with fashion is poetic in itself. As a model, he often works with designers who have stories embedded in their collections. “My poetry informs my approach to fashion,” he says. Together, fabric and words create a powerful synergy, with each piece of clothing becoming a canvas for expression.

Being a creative in Zimbabwe isn’t without its struggles. Limited financial investment in the arts often forces creatives to juggle multiple jobs. Kuda has overcome this by structuring his work strategically, ensuring fair compensation and recognition. Collaborating with brands and organizations has allowed him to thrive while staying true to his vision.

Kuda’s vision for the future is nothing short of groundbreaking. From producing albums and EPs to directing films and curating immersive exhibitions, he aims to push the boundaries of art. His dream projects include multi-sensory experiences that blend music, poetry, and visual art—spaces where people can lose themselves in creativity.

Kuda’s advice to aspiring artists? “Experiment, collaborate, and always tell a story.” He encourages creatives to explore different mediums, refine their craft, and embrace opportunities to work with others. “Storytelling is the thread that connects us all,” he says.

Kuda Rice is proof that art knows no boundaries. His journey is a testament to the power of storytelling and the resilience needed to pursue creative passions. As he continues to carve his path, Kuda reminds us of the beauty in daring to dream big.

"Art isn’t just what we create; it’s how we make people feel. Be bold, tell your story, and let the world hear your voice."