From the early influences of his uncle, Nicholas Mukomberanwa, to his deep connection with nature and Shona culture, Nesbert's passion and dedication are reflected in his work.
Early Beginnings and Influences
Nesbert Mukomberanwa's journey into the world of stone sculpting began in the late 1980s, inspired by his uncle, Nicholas Mukomberanwa. "I was taught by Nicholas Mukomberanwa, who significantly influenced my early career," Nesbert shares. "His guidance and mentorship helped shape my understanding of the craft and set me on the path to discovering my artistic voice."
The Artistic Journey
Nesbert's career has been marked by experimentation and growth. "In the early stages, I often engaged in experimenting with different styles and themes," he recalls. "This period of exploration allowed me to discover my preferred aesthetic and develop a unique artistic voice."
One pivotal moment in Nesbert's career was when his work began gaining recognition, allowing him to sustain himself solely through his sculptures. "It enabled me to have a successful career and focus entirely on my passion for sculpting," he says.
Challenges and Resilience
Like many artists, Nesbert has faced his share of challenges. "I have experienced periods of artistic block and creative stagnation," he admits. To overcome these hurdles, Nesbert steps away from his work, engages in inspiring activities, and collaborates with other artists. "Collaborating with others has been instrumental in reigniting my creativity," he notes.
Technical challenges have also been part of his journey, particularly in manipulating certain types of stone. "I continuously hone my skills and experiment with different stone varieties to expand my capabilities," Nesbert explains.
Inspirations and Influences
Nature is a profound source of inspiration for Nesbert. "The beauty of the natural world serves as a wellspring of inspiration for my sculptures," he says. "I incorporate natural forms and phenomena into my work to evoke a sense of vitality and dynamic movement."
Shona culture also plays a significant role in Nesbert's art. "The emphasis on storytelling, spiritual significance, and the interconnections of cultural narratives with the natural world deeply influence my creative process," he explains. This cultural resonance is evident in his sculptures' thematic depth and emotive quality.
Spirituality further shapes the emotional and philosophical depth of Nesbert's work. "Themes of introspection, human emotion, and philosophical inquiry are often reflected in my sculptures," he shares. "This influence infuses my work with a sense of cultural and spiritual connection."
Notable Works and Creative Process
One of Nesbert's notable sculptures is "Rainmaker (Haya)," associated with the Haya bird, whose appearance coincides with the arrival of rain. "This sculpture explores the cyclical rhythms of nature and the significance of seasonal changes," he explains.
The process of creating a sculpture begins with choosing the right stone. "I start by drawing inspiration from various sources, including nature, human experiences, and cultural symbolism," Nesbert says. "I then see the sculpture inside the stone and start chipping away the unwanted parts until I get the rightful shape."
Some sculptures present significant challenges due to the choice of stone and the complexity of the design. "Working with certain stones, like leopard rock, demands precision and expertise," he notes.
Distinctive Art and Vision
What sets Nesbert's sculptures apart is his willingness to experiment and create new pieces every time he touches a stone. "This approach makes my work distinct from others," he says. His sculptures can be seen at his home, local galleries, and international exhibitions, showcasing his rich artistic output.
Nesbert hopes that his sculptures evoke a sense of connection and introspection in those who view them. "I want people to feel the cultural and spiritual resonance and appreciate the beauty of the natural world reflected in my work," he concludes.
We are fortunate enough to have some of Nesbert’s stone sculptures in our collection. One of our favorite pieces is Unity. This striking sculpture, carved from springstone, features a circular void at its center that creates a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, drawing the eye. The sculpture depicts two birds pressed together but facing opposite directions, symbolizing unity and love. "Unity" also represents a couple watching each other's backs, protecting and supporting one another.
The smooth, polished surfaces contrast beautifully with the raw, textured edges, highlighting Nesbert's mastery in working with stone. This sculpture highlights his ability to blend natural forms with abstract concepts, evoking a sense of balance and movement.
More of Nesbert’s creative pieces.
Silhouette Sculpture - Buy Online
Love Birds Sculpture