What is ZimSculpt?
ZimSculpt is a world-renowned traveling exhibition celebrating modern Zimbabwean stone sculpture.
Of note: the exhibition only comes to North America once a year, choosing one botanical garden at which to showcase and sell these amazing works of art.
In 2022, the honor was bestowed upon Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens in Punta Gorda.
This prestigious exhibition returned to the Gardens, February through April of 2025, with 200 artists represented.
Not only is the Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens both the newest and the smallest garden to receive this exhibition, they've now been honored to host it twice!
Background
Zimsculpt is based in the capital of Zimbabwe, Harare, and represents an artist collective of roughly one hundred sculptors. Fair trade is valued: all sculptures have been ethically sourced and the artists fairly compensated for their talent.The sculptures have a striking style that is unique to the Shona tribe of southern Africa. The art is carved from various types of serpentine and semi-precious stone, often weighs tons, and can be as large as seven feet tall.
Not Your Average Art Installation
ZimSculpt is a unique showcase, in that everything in the exhibition is available for purchase, from the largest outdoor sculptures to the smallest trinkets.
In 2022, the event afforded opportunities to meet two of the Zimbabwean sculptors: Passmore Mupindiko and Brighton Layson, who demonstrated their artistry on select days. There were also special theme days and other happenings throughout the run of the exhibition.
The 2025 Exhibition featured many other events, from African Dance Classes and artist demonstration to live music and more!
More Information
As in 2022, the 2025 exhibition featured hundreds of unique sculptures, traditional baskets, jewelry pieces, trinkets, and more in the Marketplace tent.
Dates and Times
Zimsculpt was at the Gardens February 8–April 20, 2025.
The open hours were seven days a week, 9 am–4 pm.
If you missed your chance to experience some of the finest contemporary stone sculpture in the world in one of the most intriguing and beautiful settings imaginable, this is your sign to check out the current exhibition, Origami in the Garden!
