Artwell Mchimika Chipiri

In Spring 2006, Artwell won the Young Sculptor of the Year 2006 competition, sponsored by the African Millennium Foundation, beating over 1000 other contestants.

Artwell was born in Harare in 1972, the third born in a family of six. After finishing school at the age of 19, he was inspired to become a stone sculptor by Simon Chiseko. Two of his brothers are also sculptors.

Artwell says, "I did not secure employment - instead I created my own. With the visual powers I possess, I feel that life gives me the scope for my powers and emotions... With the concepts of excellence and perfection in my heart, I am sure I will reach great heights."

Artwell's work has been displayed at galleries in Zimbabwe, Germany, South Korea and the United States amongst others. Artwell spent some time in South Korea in 2005 attending workshops and exhibitions.