Runyararo Mapfumo Confronts Our Fears of Falling

A friend of Runyararo Mapfumo once told her, “feel the fear and do it anyway.” This advice can apply to many different aspects of our lives, from the kid who struggles to swim the full length of the pool to the big decisions that people make everyday. Now, Mapfumo gives us her own advice: remember to always “breathe and move.”

So why are so many people afraid to fall? Is it the idea of failing or is it the thought of not having another chance to succeed? We spoke to Mapfumo to explore the fears, memories, and experiences associated with falling.

Why did you pick the question “What if I fall?”

Initially I was drawn to the question “What is Britishness?” but found an opportunity to look at that through the lens of failure in the public eye. I also wanted to explore what that looks like for Simmy as a woman of color.

Why did you choose to interpret the question through a fictional film?

I enjoy how specific fictional film is. Whether it's location, costume, props, color palette, sound design etc. Each creative choice I made with my crew was in order to give specificity to the character and tell the story in a focused way.

What is your first memory that you associate with ‘falling’?

I was sent for swimming lessons as a kid, I'd always struggle to swim the full length of the pool. My teacher discovered it was because I'd try and hold my breath for the entire length. Something as simple as breathing. “Breathe and move” – I always try to carry that with me.

Why do you think people are so afraid to fail?

Perhaps it's less about failing but the thought of not having another chance to succeed. I often find that when people are given permission to fail, the fear decreases and there is a better process and 'result'.

Have you had any experiences where you have had to push through the fear of failing?

I remember a friend telling me to “feel the fear and do it anyway...” Not wanting to fail is natural but I do my best to not operate from a position of fear. I acknowledge the fear and then find another angle to approach the obstacle. Whether that's necessity or passion.

What is the best piece of advice you have received about success and failure?

With both success and failure, don't stay static for too long. Allow yourself to enjoy a moment or feel your disappointment and then pick yourself up, find your next manageable task and continue.

Creating a Character Through Images
You Asked, Art Answered