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Jonathan Mbiriyamveka Entertainment Reporter
Acclaimed sculptor Dominic Benhura (pictured) has hailed the Sanganai/Hlanganani Travel Expo which opened in Harare yesterday saying he had high hopes it will give impetus to sculpture that had been adversely affected by low tourist arrivals.Zimbabwean stone sculpture largely depends on the tourism industry and already most sculptors have been gearing up for the expo.
“Business has been low for the greater part of this year and it is our hope that it will peak with the Sanganai/Hlanganani Expo. It has been quiet and as you might be aware sculpture sector depends on tourism,” Benhura said.
This year’s expo, now in its sixth edition, will run until tomorrow under the theme “Celebrating Africa’s Tourism Diversity.”
More than 218 international exhibitors are expected to take part at the expo which according to the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority there has seen an increase in the number of buyers.
The Sangani/Hlanganani Travel Expo comes against the backdrop of the successful co-hosting of the 20th UNWTO General Assembly co-hosted by Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Benhura, however, said sculptors were looking forward to the expo to showcase their pieces to the visitors. Born in 1968 in Murewa, Benhura is an acclaimed Zimbabwean sculptor credited for his contributions in transforming Shona stone sculpture into a world-class modern art. Benhura’s art depicts human life endeavours and nature themes with amazing creativity.
Despite his humble rural background and orphanhood, Benhura rose to eminence selling his first sculpture at the tender age of 12.
His sculptures now adorn the major art galleries of the world and he has won numerous awards.
In Zimbabwe, Benhura is an icon, a role model for young people and those who wish to take art as a full time profession. He believes that stone sculpture is something through which anyone can express their feelings.
His unparalleled charitable work attests to his desire to give back to his community as a true humanist.
Online Reporter