Ready for the journey (Shona sculpture by Sampson Kuvenguhwa)
In this shona stone carving, artist Sampson Kuvenguhwa portrays a man who appears to be prepared for a journey, with a rucksack on his back. The Mapiti style is clearly visible in the intricate details of the sculpture, which follows a certain style that is characteristic of Sam Kuve's work.
The Mapiti style is known for its attention to detail and its ability to capture emotion and depth in its subjects. Sampson Kuvenguhwa's sculpture of the man with the rucksack exemplifies this style, as the intricate details of the man's clothing and the expression on his face convey a sense of purpose and determination.
Sam's use of the Mapiti style adds an element of complexity and emotional depth to his sculptures, allowing him to capture the essence of his subjects in a way that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.
Overall, Sampson Kuvenguhwa's shona stone sculpture of the man with the rucksack is a testament to his skill as an artist and his ability to convey the emotions and experiences of his subjects through his unique style.
The black serpentine stone is grey after carving. It is then heated and polished to reach a very bright and even shine.
Click here to learn about the stones used in Zimbabwe by sculptors.