There is someone new to see at the Wild Animal Park’s Plant Trader gift shop this year. I am pleased to let you know that we have Alex Chitura, a master Shona sculpture artisan on grounds. Alex, born in Rusape, Zimbabwe, is one of Africa’s greatest contributors to the world of contemporary art. We have two of his huge sculptures displayed. One is a 6-ton elephant (pictured) carved from springstone (taking two years to complete). The other equally amazing piece is a rhinoceros carved from ironwood, this one taking ONLY one year! He is presently carving a large hippo on site (see image below) and can be seen every day but Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. He has many smaller carvings, welded art, and clay sculptures available for sale as well, in our gift shop and online at shopzoo.com.

Alex graduated from Masvingo College of Art in 1979 with a distinction in welding and sculpting. He moved to Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, and began working for Sondela Exports. His skills as a carver were recognized and he was promoted to chief carver, a position that allowed many new opportunities. Alex also trained many new and upcoming artists to be their best while employed there. In 1990, he moved back to his home and began carving on his own from wood and stone. His work became so sought after that people were requesting pieces months in advance! Alex’s career has sky rocketed from those beginning years. His studio in Zimbabwe is now home to the most highly talented artists.

Alex and his family presently live in the eastern United States, but with the lure of sunny skies and the wonderful people he has met since being here, I won’t be surprised if he calls Southern California home! Alex will be with us until September 3. Don’t miss him. He is wonderful to speak with as well as to see in action. See ya there!

Deb Erickson-Morris works in the Plant Trader gift shop at the Wild Animal Park.

Posted in Default, The Zoo Journal, General | Link to this post

You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Scroll to the end to leave a comment. Pinging is not allowed.