Around 60 years ago, artists in what was then Rhodesia discovered the art of sculpture. It developed rapidly and soon became internationally known and popular. Sylvester Mumbayi was one of the most renowned representatives of modern sculpture in Zimbabwe. He loved to tell stories and was known for his knowledge of traditional myths, which he liked to explain. In his art he often merged the human, the animal and the world of supernatural forces. His incredibly finely polished sculptures of people from traditional life are famous. The delicious depictions of baboons and their families bear witness to his humor.
Sylvester Mubayi's works have been presented at numerous exhibitions in many countries, including Moscow, Washington D.C., Chicago, Vienna and Berlin. Many of his sculptures are part of renowned collections in Europe and North America. In 1969 he received the Ernest Oppenheimer Memorial Award for Sculpture.
You can admire some of his wonderful works in our gallery in Brienz.
