About Zimbabwe Stone
Zimbabwean stone sculpture is often referred to as "Shona sculpture"after the main tribe in Zimbabwe. It is fitting that Zimbabwe's name is derived from the Shona phrase "dzimba dzamabwe", meaning 'house of stone'. Stone sculpting became commercialized in the 50's and has since become internationally renowned as one of the most important arts' movements from Africa.
The subject matter of the work ranges from celebrations of womanhood, to birth and death. The natural world is another popular area of exploration for sculptors, who often use nature to represent Zimbabwe's indigenous peoples' rural roots and gratitude for ancestors. Sculpture celebrates Zimbabwean culture, and is a means to deal with present-day tribulations. The sculptures are un-pretentious, charming and unrelentingly positive.
Today, the success of certain Zimbabwean sculptors, like Dominic Benhura or the late Joram Mariga, has granted the genre respect on an international scale. The profession is a dynamic and multi-faceted way of life, where artists engage with clients from around the world. Ultimately, sculpting is an empowering way to celebrate Zimbabwean culture while at the same time, earn a living.