Rickson Zavare ("Murehwa")

"My art is based on the past in relation to modern events, the feelings and attitudes of people in different situations, and the sphere of influence of Shona customs ... I strongly believe that my pieces are genuinely unique and original and challenge the best of the work of established artists."

In 2010 and 2011 and 2012, Rickson was nominated for the National Arts Merit Award for 3D (i.e. sculpture) visual arts. Unfortunately, every time he came runner-up but he was still judged one of the three top artists in Zimbabwe, which is a great accolade.

In Autumn 2010, he was selected as a finalist (one of ten) in the prestigious Kristin Diehl sculpture competition, and after a five-day workshop, was eventually awarded fourth place.

Rickson Zavare was born in 1977 in Murehwa, eastern Zimbabwe and has taken the name of birthplace as his tradename. He came to Chitungwiza to sit his A-Levels, and has stayed in the city ever since. His lecturers taught him the importance of self-reliance, and to create his own employment opportunities.

In 1997, Rickson was inspired by his brother-in-law Tago Tazvitya, previous Chairman of the Chitungwiza Arts Centre, to try stone sculpture. Creative thoughts grew naturally and he started working on stones as a full-time occupation.

His works have been exhibited by galleries in Europe, North America, China and other parts of Africa. Joint exhibitions have included the National Arts Council in Zimbabwe and internationally in Hanover, Germany.