Davis Sibanda

Multimedia sculptor | Chitungwiza, Zimbabwe

Versatile with materials, focused on heritage

Davis carves functional objects out of stone and wood
His work keeps Shona sculpture and music traditions alive
He has been handcrafting since he was a child

Davis Sibanda refers to himself as a born creator and sees his talent as a great gift from God. Self-taught, he discovered his creative skills at school and began making wire crafts, a popular local childhood past-time. Davis opened his workshop in 2000. The first object he made was a human figure, and since then, he has developed as a sculptor, carving bowls, decorative objects, and musical instruments. He uses different materials such as stone, wood, reclaimed bone, wire, and metal. Davis also specialises in the decorative engraving of animal skulls*. On a mission to “keep Shona sculpture and music alive,” he draws on influences synonymous with Zimbabwe’s culture and artisan heritage. (*The skulls come from animals who died from natural causes and are sourced from the Zimbabwe Parks & Wildlife Management Authority.)

Interview

Wonai_Haruperi©Michelangelo_Foundation

Do you remember the moment when you first thought of picking up this craft?: I was a 10-year-old school child when I discovered that I had a talent for drawing and making wire-crafted objects.
How do you express tradition and innovation in your work?: I decorate my wooden bowls with traditional designs that are connected to my family. I also create musical instruments like the mbira and marimba that are used in my culture.
Can you tell us a memorable moment in your professional life?: It was the day I received a nomination for the National Merit Awards, an annual local award granted by the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) that recognises outstanding achievements in the arts and culture by honouring artists who excel.
What is one thing about your work that people do not normally know?: Not only do I make musical instruments, but I am also a musician. I play the instruments and teach others how to play them.

Davis Sibanda is a master artisan: he began his career in 1996 and he started teaching in 2010