By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
Zimbabwe’s internationally acclaimed sculptor Dominic Benhura’s latest exhibition sets out to promote environmental awareness as well as cultural identity.
The exhibition scheduled to open on May 7 to June 16 at Krohn Conservatory Sculpture Exhibit in Cincinnati, the United States will feature various works of stone sculptors from Zimbabwe.
The themes include nature conservation, family traditions and cultural identity.
The outdoor sculpture walk will feature monumental works and the indoor exhibit will feature smaller works with a variety of indigenous stones of Zimbabwe.
For Benhura (53), stone sculpting has always been his hobby although along the way it became his career path.
More often than, Benhura is inspired by nature — the plants, animals and figures which he sculpts second to none.
For Benhura, stone sculpting has always been his hobby although along the way it became his career path.
More often than not, Benhura is inspired by nature, the plants, animals and figures which he sculpts second to none.
His mixed-media three-dimensional sculpture comprising Dolomite and Springstone was among other 600 masterpieces from around the world at the 9th Beijing Biennale.
The latest technique by world renowned sculptor Dominic Benhura already charmed the jury at the Beijing Biennale which ran from 18 January 2022 – March 1st, 2022.
Apart from the legendary Benhura there were also paintings by Nomzamo Precious Ndebele and David Ngwerume’s sculpture.
According to Benhura, the sculpture which was his only submission to the judges, made it because of the technique used that showcases a combination of evolution and innovation.
“This is the first I have ever used this technique of combining two stones into one to give different texture and feel.
“It is a colourful sculpture which augurs well with the theme of the Beijing Biennale. Yes, culture is evolving and so is our art and I am delighted this is the first time I’ve ever used this technique,” he explained the piece.
The 9th Beijing International Art Biennale ran under the theme: “The Light of Life.”
Benhura said he chose the sculpture titled Proud Mother because it was the mothers and girl child who give life.
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