If you're ever to visit Zimbabwe, you’ll notice its landscapes decorated with natural art. From the lush bushes teeming with wildlife, to the magnificent mountains that dip into valleys and the infamous balancing rocks, there are endless natural beauties to gaze upon. But the wonder doesn’t end there. Amongst the natural art is also a display of talent of the Zimbabwean people. From paintings to stone and wood carvings and beadwork, Zimbabwe is a host for creativity.

Art has always been a part of the history of Zimbabwe. Bushmen Paintings have been found on rock faces and in caves that can date back to around 1500 years, some even to 10 000 years. These extraordinary artworks are still visible today in places like Great Zimbabwe and Matobo Hills National Park and give great insight into the lives and practices of the Zimbabwean ancestors. As years went on, Zimbabwean artists were influenced by external cultures and religions. Then, paintings of landscapes, nature and people emerged, depicting life in the new world.

Another common art form in Zimbabwe is soapstone sculptures. One of the prominent carvings is that of a bird, mimicking those found in Great Zimbabwe which have become a national emblem. The bird is said to be a representation of the African fish eagle and appears on the national flag, coat of arms and previously, banknotes, coins and stamps. You’ll also find depictions of totems, usually associated with animals and used for social identity of clans and renditions of family dynamics and relationships. Aside from soapstone, local sculptors also use serpentine, malachite and verdite to capture and express their views and evoke emotions in their viewers.

Sculptures are a common artform in Zimbabwe

While meeting the friendly people of Zimbabwe, you may come across some that are adorned in beads. You’ll find them intricately woven around their wrists to make eyecatching bracelets, dancing on the tips of their braided hair or embellished onto bags or clothing. Beadwork is a skill that has been passed on from generation to generation and incorporates seeds from trees as well as stones and glass.

With so much creativity and inspiration to be found in Zimbabwe, there is a need to foster the industry so it continues to thrive. Artists need to be encouraged and youth need to be guided so that they can be inspired to develop their creative skills. That’s why Zimbowties is dedicated to running creative workshops so that we not only create art, but teach it too. This ensures that the next generation of artists can use their skills for their own achievements and then help someone else to do the same, generating an infinite cycle of creativity so art can live on in Zimbabwe for decades to come.

Art in Zimbabwe