US: Zimbabwean stone sculptures return to southwest Florida

By seegreatart.art

Rich cultural experiences are on view in the heart of Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach, Florida as ZimSculpt, a renowned exhibition of Zimbabwean stone sculptures, returned to Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens.

Opening February 8 and on display through April 20, 2025, the Gardens will host over 2,000 hand-carved stone sculptures. The exhibition, which is only presented in North America once a year, offers a rare opportunity to view and purchase these unique works of art.

Curated by ZimSculpt, the exhibition features contemporary sculptures created by over 150 Zimbabwean artists, with each piece crafted using the traditional Shona stone carving technique.

This art form, which originated in the late 1970s, is passed down through generations and has become an iconic expression of Zimbabwean culture. The collection showcases work from the original founders of Shona sculpture all the way through the fifth generation of sculptors.

As part of the exhibition’s ever-evolving nature, new sculptures will be rotating through the exhibit on a weekly basis, creating a dynamic and fresh display throughout the run of the event.

Everything in the exhibit is available for purchase, making this a truly unique opportunity to acquire original artwork directly from the artists. Visitors will also find a marketplace filled with handmade baskets, jewellery, and other artisan crafts, offering a diverse range of cultural experiences.

The exhibition is curated by Vivienne and Joseph Croisette, a couple with 25 years of experience in showcasing Shona sculpture. Their deep personal connections with the artists they represent give visitors a rare opportunity to learn about the journey of each piece and its cultural significance.

“When we exhibited in 2022, Punta Gorda demonstrated the highest level of community that we have witnessed in our decades of exhibitions, and we knew we wanted to return,” ZimSculpt owner, Vivienne Croisette, said.

Two artists will be on-site daily, demonstrating their craft and sharing insights into the stone carving process.

ZimSculpt’s exhibitions have earned international acclaim, with pieces displayed in prestigious collections worldwide, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Rodin Museum, and the Atlanta Airport.

The collection has even garnered the attention of prominent figures such as Sir Richard Attenborough, Morgan Freeman, the Rockefeller family, and the British Royal Household.