Category
2026, SculptureArtist Website: zimibwesculptures.com
Bio:
Aron Kapembeza is an internationally recognized Zimbabwean stone sculptor and founder of Zim-ibwe Sculptures, based in Dallas, Texas. His artistic talent emerged at an early age, and through perseverance and dedication he has become one of Zimbabwe’s leading contemporary stone sculptors.
Aron was introduced to sculpture by his aunt, the acclaimed third generation Zimbabwean sculptor . Beginning with small off-cuts of stone, he learned the fundamentals of carving under her guidance before developing his own distinctive artistic style. Her encouragement to work on larger stones inspired a lifelong passion for sculpture.
Although largely self-taught and without formal fine arts training, Aron has developed a unique approach that allows each stone to guide the creative process. As he says, “Just let the stone speak to you, and finish the rest.” His sculptures are carved entirely by hand from a single piece of stone, preserving graceful flowing lines while revealing the character within the material.
Initially inspired by the women who surrounded him while growing up, Aron’s early work celebrated womanhood in its many forms. Today his work also explores themes of family, unity, love, nature, wildlife, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
Aron’s sculptures are held in private, corporate, and public collections throughout Africa, Europe, Asia, Canada, and the United States. His career includes more than 50 exhibitions worldwide. He has exhibited extensively in the Netherlands, where he presented a solo exhibition, worked for three months at Gallery De Buffel, and taught stone sculpture workshops.
He has also exhibited internationally at botanical gardens, museums, galleries, and art festivals, with permanent installations at the Muttart Conservatory and other botanical gardens. His large-scale sculptures are also featured in botanical gardens in South Korea.
Dedicated to preserving and promoting Zimbabwean stone sculpture, Aron mentors emerging artists and supports more than 50 sculptors in Zimbabwe through exhibition opportunities and professional guidance. He regularly conducts workshops for collectors, students, and the public, sharing both his technical skills and his passion for the art of hand-carved stone sculpture.
Whether creating intimate works or monumental pieces, Aron remains committed to revealing the natural beauty hidden within each stone and creating sculptures that inspire connection, reflection, and joy.
Artist Statement:
Hand-carved natural stone sculpture using traditional Shona stone carving methods, shaped with precision tools and finished with sanding and polish.