MASTER SCULPTORS OF ZIMBABWE

The Origin

The history of the modern Zimbabwean Stone Sculpture is in itself part of modern art history. How did these stone sculptures, with their mixture of traditional story and modern expression come about?
The stones were there, the artists in waiting, the tradition of carving utensils in wood; and circumstances contributed to the emergence of this unique art form. Among these, the appointment of Frank McEwen as the first director of the National Gallery of Art in Zimbabwe, who took an initiative to explore the artistic potential of the black people of then Rhodesia with its apartheid rule. A controversial move, which eventually lead to his departure from the country but not before he had managed to introduce these new masters of art into the world of Musee Rodin, Paris, Museum of Modern art, New York, and exhibitions visited by people from princes to art critics, and praised everywhere.

In the 21st Century

The younger artists carry the art form forward, building on traditional ground and paving new ways for it, in abstract forms, with humour, compelling expressions, daring forms and challenging balances, as well as sheer beauty.
It is characteristic that there is a certain collectiveness connected to this art, in which each master find his own ways and expressions, which he develops in a fruitful companionship with his fellow artists.
These artists all know each other and many of them work daily at the same place in Zimbabwe, where Friends Forever has been a part of providing ideal production facilities, such as good quality raw stones of many colours and types, as well as tools and shaded work areas, and free food.
We are proud to present these masterpieces to a European and internationally orientated audience.