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Tawanda Marwizi Arts Correspondent
Stone sculpture in the country is developing with several artists working tirelessly to preserve our heritage. Several sculptors are coming up with themes that suit current situations while others are fighting hard to make sure the nation is educated about nature.
For sculptor Stephen Banda Murenza, young brother to award-winning sculptor Rufaro Murenza, the stones should explore several issues that reflect our culture and surroundings.
In that light Murenza now boasts of a gallery that has sculptures made under several themes.
He has pieces that depict social aspects and is optimistic that his works will make an impact in the society.
Murenza’s love for wildlife has inspired him to make several pieces on the subject while he also reflects on various issues happening among people.
Some pieces in his gallery are “Recalling Memories”, “My First Date”, “Huddling Horses”, “My First Kiss”, “Sharing Ideas” and “Playing Horses” among others.
His works are a mixture of different stones that include spring stone and dolomite.
“My First Date” brings the theme of love in the gallery as he carved a woman who is smartly dressed, waiting to meet her first boy friend.
“This one is a spring stone piece that tells of how people dress when they are meeting their spouses for the first time. You see with the coming of technology sometimes people date via social media platforms. When they meet for the first time the girl dresses to impress her boyfriend,” he said.
He is working to have a bigger gallery with pieces that tell different stories.
“I am targeting to have a gallery that has several pieces with different social themes. With the help of Chitungwiza Arts Centre I am sure I will get there,” he said.
Just like any other artist, Murenza is trying to create his own style that is distinct.
“My brother has won awards because of his unique stone works and that is my wish as an artist,” he said.
Murenza was born in Rushinga in a family of six boys and five of them are sculptors.
He relocated to Chitungwiza where he joined the arts centre working on pieces that explore his love for nature.
The sculptor has travelled to several countries that include Mexico, Australia and Belgium among others selling his works.
Online Reporter