Shona Art: Money to the Maker

One of the best things about travel is that you get a chance to smell the smells, taste the food, hear the sounds and appreciate the art of different cultures. I love that!

New Zealand has a superb creative vein that continues to produce amazing work.

Zimbabwe too, has artistic expression with traditional roots, yet it continues to develop and surprise.

A few years ago charitable trust was formed by a Canadian doctor a few years back and it has breathed new life into sculpting because it creates a revenue stream for the sculptures.

Sculpture: Sisters by RUFARO MURENZA

An aficionado of Shona abstract and contemporary art sculptures, Dr. Brian Carpenter wanted to access the crisis and consider what opportunities could directly benefit the artists. Carpenter met with his partners, Doug Dicker in Zimbabwe and Greg Pendura in Canada. Together they developed a business model where Muvezi Inc. and Muvezi Charitable Foundation, a non-profit organization named for the Shona word ‘carver of stone’, was born.

As an initial goal the charity wanted to renew passion for this spectacular, yet endangered tribal art form. By doing so they are simultaneously improving the quality of life for hundreds of Shona artists, along with the thousands of people depending upon them within their familial and social circles of influence. Today, thanks to Muvezi’s efforts, the top Zimbabwe carvers receive a consistent income and regular shipments of 15-ton quality stone that arrive directly to their workplace. The Shona artists can now work with their apprentices on an ongoing, daily basis without the stress of financial uncertainty. Artistically and economically this is the ideal way for their craft to evolve.

In only a few short months, the 200 Shona sculptors working for Muvezi are regaining motivation, confidence and self-esteem. The foundation’s artists, along with their apprentices and families, finally have security and support.

Needless to say extraordinary improvements in craftsmanship and creativity have taken place. Some of the highest quality custom-made Shona art for the Western world is now being created and this wonderful art continues to evolve.

The transformation, from traditional tribal art to contemporary African art form, is being cultivated and primed. Indeed, a Renaissance is in the works. For the non-profit charity, their role is to ensure their fine decorative stone art is world-class. Ensuring top quality means Muvezi is dedicated to selling only the best. As charity gifts, office gifts or simply fine art decorative pieces, Muvezi is ensuing galleries, museums and art enthusiasts around the world can collect and display this magnificent art.

Sculpture: Come Dance With me by EDIAS MUROMBA

Check out the Muvezi website for some amazing pieces of art that can be purchased online and shipped to your home with much of the proceeds going back to the sculptures and their communities.