The Movement of Shona Sculpture is said to have been introduced to the western world by Frank McEwen in 1957 as he recognised the talent in the Shona people of Zimbabwe. The Great Dyke which is a band of minerals and precious stone is the source of most of the stones which are used to sculpt the unique Shona Sculpture. This Dyke stretches across the north and the south with the entire length of th
e Great Dyke some 550 km. Without such geological wealth of mineral stone this art form would not have been successful. The industry is unique to the Shona people and has become popular in Australia, America and Europe. Even here in the United Kingdom the Royal Family are reported to be collectors of Shona Sculpture. Gareth Mutema (Director of African Masters of Stone) was born in Zimbabwe and spent 16 years among the artists and sculptors. It was during this time that he developed his passion for the Shona Sculpture movement. His experience and local knowledge of the culture ensures that African Masters of Stone acquire only the finest quality sculptures. His experience of seeing close family members grow to become sculptors themselves and artisans in their own right provides African Masters of Stone with an authentic understanding and appreciation of Shona Sculpture.
