LOVEMORE BONJISI
BIOGRAPHY :
Lovemore Bonjisi comes from a family of renowned sculptors, being the youngest of seven children in the Bonjisi family tradition. As a result, he was introduced to sculpting at a young age and immersed in the world of Shona sculpture. Meeting the celebrated First Generation sculptor Nicholas Mukomberanwa became a key influence in his artistic development. Under Mukomberanwa’s mentorship, Lovemore spent five formative years learning the traditional techniques of Shona sculpture. By the age of 14, he made the bold decision to forgo secondary school and pursue his passion for carving full-time.
Bonjisi’s work is characterized by a deep admiration of the female form, which he portrays with a distinct combination of realism and abstraction. His sculptures often feature smooth, elongated necks and graceful, life-like faces, reflecting a harmony between elegance and strength. Through sharp angles and flowing lines, his figures exude both power and tenderness, capturing the essence of feminine beauty in a way that feels timeless. His approach combines traditional Shona methods with modern influences, resulting in works of art that are dynamic and innovative, yet rooted in cultural heritage.
Influenced by his late brother Lameck, one of Zimbabwe's most successful sculptors, Bonjisi has developed a unique style that blends both traditional and contemporary elements. His medium of choice is Springstone, prized for its hardness and polished surface, and Cobalt, admired for its rich colours. These locally named varieties of serpentine stone allow him to create sculptures that are not only visually striking but also tactilely engaging.
Lovemore Bonjisi's sculptures are held in private collections and galleries around the world, where they continue to captivate with their depth of emotion and exquisite craftsmanship, particularly in their portrayal of women as symbols of strength and grace.
