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Chiwawa, Vengai

Vengai Chiwawa was born in 1975 in Guruve, a region with a strong stone sculpting tradition. His father, Edward Chiwawa, is a respected first generation sculptor. Vengai started to carve his own small sculptures at the age of seven, and says he "turned professional" at the age of 15. He now works from his home studio in Chitungwiza.

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Vengai explains that his work is deeply influenced by woman because of the important role they play in society and because "women represent a vital life force whose strength, resilience and gentleness must be respected." He also believes that there is much which still needs to be done to improve women's lives and he hopes his art will contribute to that goal. As an artist with deeply held religious beliefs Vengai feels that art must be a force for good. 


The stone itself is a great source of inspiration to Vengai, who was taught by his father to see and preserve the life that is in each 
piece of stone. 

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Vengai's expressive and beautifully executed sculptures are full of emotion. He explores philosophical themes about the stages of life and the importance of memories. Vengai sees Zimbabwean sculptors as storytellers who celebrate and explore their culture as well as universal themes, though their work.

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Vengai has participated in a number of group exhibitions at The National Art Gallery of Zimbabwe and travelling international exhibits organized by Chapungu Sculpture Park. In 1999 he was invited to give sculpting workshops in Germany by Alzgalerie in Munich. Vengai has returned to Europe many times since then to lead workshops organized by galleries who represent him in Germany, Holland and Belgium. 


Vengai's sculptures have been purchased by galleries and collectors in Germany, the US, the UK, Holland, France, Belgium and Canada. 

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www.zimart.com

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