About

The Vision of African Masters of Stone

African Masters of Stone are suppliers of the finest traditional Zimbabwean art: hand-carved African statues. Traditional African Art has many forms but Shona sculpture artists are unique to Zimbabwe. We are passionate about what we do and how we do it. We are committed to providing the platform from which these Shona sculpture artists can present their work. It is extremely important to us that the artists are not exploited but receive a fair financial value for their work. This allows them to continue a sustainable living and receive the credit they deserve. 

Experts in African Shona Stone Sculptures 

African Masters of Stone have a very unique and personal relationship with the Shona sculpture artists who create the traditional Zimbabwean art which we promote. We are not wholesalers of African stone art sculptures, but deal directly with the artists themselves. Each hand-carved African statue is unique in its own right, conceived in the artist’s imagination. Many of our artists have exhibited in Canada, the USA, the Netherlands, Germany and the United Kingdom. The artists are formally known as second and third generation sculptors of the African Shona stone sculptures movement. They are either emerging talent or already hold international recognition. It is our passion and aim to see their work displayed for all to enjoy.

The History of African Shona Stone Sculptures 

The movement of Shona sculpture artists is said to have been introduced to the western world by Frank McEwen in 1957. He had a deep appreciation for traditional Zimbabwean art and recognised the talent in the Shona people. The Great Dyke, which is a band of minerals and precious stone running through the centre of Zimbabwe to the west of the capital, Harare, is the source of most of the stone which is used to sculpt these unique African stone art sculptures. This Dyke stretches from the north to the south, the entire length of the Great Dyke is 550km. 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 African Shona stone sculptures.

The Founding of African Masters of Stone 

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 a passion for the craft behind African stone art sculptures. His experience and local knowledge of the craft ensures that African Masters of Stone acquire only the finest quality hand-carved African statues. His experience of seeing close family members grow to become artisans in their own right provides African Masters of Stone with an authentic understanding and appreciation of this traditional Zimbabwean art.

Mark Whitfield, who has spent most of his life as an entrepreneur partnered with Gareth, as a Director, to form African Masters of Stone. His knowledge and experience has been vital to promote these African ornaments online.