Our Artists

At Kumusha, we proudly showcase the work of talented African sculptors, particularly those fromZimbabwe. Our artists are paid fairly, ensuring they can continue their craft with economicsecurity while sharing their rich cultural heritage with the world. Each artist brings their uniquevision to the ancient tradition of Shona stone sculpting, using locally sourced serpentine stone. We’re committed to fostering creativity and connection between Zimbabwean art and Aotearoa. Explore the stories behind each artist and their exceptional work below.

Gift Rusere

Thirty-six-year-old Gift is from Mhondoro in the central north-west province of Mashonaland West. He’s married to Tabeth and they have three young children aged 8, 4, and 2. Gift grew up with his mother’s family, before moving to Mbare in Harare at age 12. It was his maternal uncle, Kunaka, a sculptor, who first introduced him to Shona sculpting. Sekuru Kunaka sold his art at Africa Unity Square in the city and perfected his craft at Chinembiri Craft Centre in Mbare. Gift started carving in 1998 while still at school and he would work after school as an apprentice. He sold his first carvings at the annual Harare International Festival of the Arts (HIFA) in 1999. Gift says he is inspired by other artists, including his German friend, Andreas Wutz, a painter who introduced him to abstract art. Gift has also begun dabbling in painting under the tutelage of Zimbabwean artist Patrick Jekapu. He loves to collaborate with other artists and believes that working together helps create even better art. Gift mostly carves spring stone, green opal and cobalt, and leopard stone.