Zimbabwean sculpture is a vibrant and expressive form of art that draws deeply from its rich culture and beliefs. Most Zimbabwean sculptors belong to the Shona tribe and navigate a dual belief system. Alongside their devout Christianity, they uphold older spiritual beliefs rooted in tradition. This blend of faiths is typical of African culture and plays a significant role in how artists express this unique outlook within their sculptures. Perhaps this is what makes them special. Shona Mythology and the Spirit World Central to Shona culture is the belief that spirits inhabit all living things and some inanimate objects, bridging the visible and invisible worlds. Ancestor spirits, in particular, play a pivotal role in the community and are...
Meyavé has successfully merged artistry with tradition and is proud of its unique collaboration with Zimbabwean artists. They have a special connection to this vibrant art community and have formed lasting partnerships with some of Zimbabwe's incredible sculptors, such as Dominic Benhura, Confidence Zinyeka, Godfrey Matungamidze, and Bywell Sango. Itai is always looking for new work by these exceptional artists and spends an average of three months each year in Zimbabwe. He also collaborates with local artists and creates his own designs. The art of stone sculpting in Zimbabwe blends rich tradition and culture with the vision and skill of each artist. Each creation is a unique combination of stone and sculptor. Inspiration from Raw Stone At the...
Zimbabwe's name originates from the Shona phrase dzimba dzemabwe, which translates to "houses of stone" or "stone buildings." Zimbabwe is renowned for its rich culture and stone sculptures with recurring themes that reflect the Shona's cultural, social, and spiritual beliefs. Each artist's work is a unique interpretation of these elements. Let's look at the most common themes, their significance, and the symbolism found in many Shona sculptures. Family Like most cultures, family lies at the heart of Shona society, and this theme is often expressed through sculpture. These artworks not only celebrate the centrality of the family but also provide insights into the different family members and their responsibilities. Through their intricate carvings, Shona sculptors capture the...
