Global Sculptor Returns to Arizona
Writer Joseph J. Airdo
In the heart of Carefree’s Historic Spanish Village, a remarkable artistic homecoming is about to unfold. Internationally acclaimed Zimbabwean sculptor Dominic Benhura, whose works grace collections from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to the Nelson Mandela Foundation, returns to ZUVA Gallery for his eighth solo exhibition — a testament to a partnership spanning nearly three decades.
“I very much look forward to my return to ZUVA and the desert,” says Benhura, whose distinctive style has captivated collectors worldwide. “This is my finest collection of work to date.”
The exhibition marks a creative evolution for the artist, featuring his signature sculptures of children alongside a new series of African wildlife pieces.
“His ‘Lioness’ sculpture is particularly striking,” says Peter Kadada, owner of ZUVA Gallery, “sharing similarities with the mountain lions of Arizona, which Dominic has observed during his past visits here.”
Benhura’s journey with ZUVA Gallery began in 1996, when the gallery first opened its doors. What started as a professional relationship has blossomed into a profound friendship that has helped shape both the artist’s career and Arizona’s art landscape. A pivotal moment came in 2002 when ZUVA Gallery and Benhura presented work to Nelson Mandela, catapulting the artist to global recognition.
The sculptor’s connection to Arizona runs deep, with his works finding particular resonance among local collectors who appreciate the versatility of the pieces for both indoor and outdoor display.
“The hand-sculpted stone has a tactile quality that really speaks to people here,” Kadada explains. “Collectors have found creative ways to incorporate his larger pieces into their landscaping, particularly appealing in Arizona where indoor and outdoor living spaces often blend seamlessly.”
Working exclusively in springstone from his native Zimbabwe, Benhura has developed a distinctive sculpting style that sets him apart in the contemporary art world. His unique approach — focusing on form and movement rather than facial features — gives his work universal appeal. This artistic choice stems from personal experience: Raised as an orphan, he has dedicated his career to celebrating children and family bonds, themes that have particularly resonated with Arizona collectors over the years.
The success of this enduring partnership between artist and gallery has transformed lives on both continents. Through his exhibitions at ZUVA Gallery and other international venues, Benhura has provided unprecedented educational opportunities for his five children, all of whom have earned university degrees in Europe and South Africa. It’s an achievement that mirrors the artist’s own journey from a small Zimbabwean village to international acclaim.
His commitment to nurturing talent extends beyond his own family. In 1994, Benhura founded Dominic Benhura Studios, an artist-forward community in Zimbabwe focused on discovery, development and sustainability. The studio hosts some of the finest sculptors on the continent, fostering dialogue and professional exchange while empowering artists with both creative and financial knowledge.
“We work side by side, debate, share ideas and common costs, and pull for one another like family,” Benhura says of his studio community.
This collaborative spirit extends to ZUVA Gallery, where he regularly sculpts on-site during his Arizona visits, allowing collectors and art enthusiasts to witness his creative process firsthand.
Adding to his legacy in Arizona, Benhura will present a major sculpture to the town of Carefree during his visit. The work will be unveiled in a ceremony with Mayor John Crane at the Carefree Desert Gardens at 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 20, marking a significant addition to the town’s public art collection. Following the unveiling, Crane will give the opening address at ZUVA Gallery’s exhibition reception.
For art enthusiasts and collectors, this exhibition offers multiple opportunities to engage with the artist and his work. In addition to the opening reception, Benhura will conduct a special walk-through of ZUVA Gallery and its sculpture garden at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 22. His presence promises to add another chapter to a remarkable story that bridges continents and cultures through the universal language of art.
Dominic Benhura Solo Exhibition
Feb. 20–March 30 // Tuesdays–Fridays 10 a.m.–5 p.m. // Saturdays–Sundays 11 a.m.–5 p.m. // Mondays by appointment only // ZUVA Gallery // Historic Spanish Village // 7211 E. Ho Hum Road, Suite 17, Carefree // Free admission // 310-433-4465 // zuvagallery.com
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