Bringing sculpture closer to the community

Tawanda Marwizi Arts Correspondent
Chitungwiza Arts Centre chairman Taurai Tigere believes art exhibitions are one way to bring the community closer to the art world.

His remarks come as the centre is having a massive art exhibition that started on Monday this week.

Official opening of the event will be held tomorrow with several stakeholders expected to grace the event.

For years Zimbabwean sculptors have been recognised internationally, but struggling to get honour back home.

Tigere said by engaging communities at such exhibitions they aim to enlighten them about the importance of stone sculptors in the modern days.

“We have worked with the community in preparing the exhibition and we are happy that since Monday they have been responding well,” he said.

Tigere said they have made the event free for everybody in order to attract many people from the community.

“Artists need support and you would find that very few people appreciate them and their works,” he said.

Several sculptors concurred with Tigere saying such events help the community to understand stone curving.

Taurai Tandi a renowned sculptor said that was the only way the society would know about their works.

“Art exhibitions are very crucial n our career as they bring us closer to the community as well as creating contacts,” said Tandi.

Ishmael Chitiyo said that is one way organizations would come and see what is on the ground.

“This arts centre has produced a number of award winging sculptors meaning people are working hard to produce the best.

“Such platforms are good for the society and us,” he said.

More than 200 artists have been exhibiting their works.

The Arts Centre has been producing award winning pieces for years and the exhibition is expected to give artistes a platform to create contacts.

Stone carving is one form of art that enhances cultural preservation.

Several artists have worked tirelessly to produce pieces that will be used as historical evidence.

Tendai Chareka from the same Arts Centre recently made headlines with his piece on the famous lion “Cecil”.