By Vida Msiyo

Blantyre, June 3, Mana: Ashley Furniture Home Store at Clock Tower Mall in Blantyre Saturday brought together best of Malawian creativity and home design in an exhibition showcasing stunning artworks in a bid to highlighting the store's commitment to support local talent.

Ashley Furniture, Head of Marketing, Laura Chisale told Malawi News Agency (Mana) that Clock Tower Mall exhibition was meant to promote Malawian art by bringing a collection of unique brands.  

“We believe in working with the community, Ashley is not only based in the United States but we are in the country to help promote Malawian brands. We collaborate with artists to give them exposure, and we believe in bringing brands together,” she said.

The exhibition featured products of Ashley furniture in form of sofa and dining sets, beds plus, kitchen utensils while other exhibitors brought visual art works in form of paintings, herbal body lotion among others.

“Our aim is to work with and support artists in the country” Ashley Furniture, Head of Marketing added and assured customers that home accessories sold at Clock Tower Mall are affordable and of high quality.

“Malawians don’t have to worry because all items sold at the mall are affordable and are of high quality. Right now, we have a 30% discount on all accessories while stocks last. Prices vary and Malawians can buy, “Chisale added.

Visual Artist, Gilbert Mpakule who is President of Visual Arts Association of Malawi hailed Ashley Furniture Home Store for organizing the exhibition, saying it provided opportunity for the artists to showcase their artistic skills.                              

“It is very important to promote our art. We artists spend a lot of time creating, so I ask Malawians and everyone to support us just like Ashley has done. It is not ideal to import artworks when we have talented artists here in Malawi,” he said.

Other visual artists who participated at the Clock Tower Mall exhibition included; Chiso Lifa Arts, Tee Mlinga, and Maxwell Banda who displayed various artworks ranging from detailed drawings to colorful paintings to impress patrons that have a taste of visual art.