Boira Mteki
Boira Mteki was born in 1946 in Harare and as one of the founder sculptors of Frank McEwen磗 National Gallery Workshop School; his work has graced many of the most important exhibitions during the last thirty years.
As early as 1962 he started using the hardest materials available and by example, encouraged others to move from the soft Soapstone, Steatite then predominant, to hard Serpentines, Springstone, Limestone and Granite.
These demanding stones were to compliment the powerful imagery of his sculpture and as a result he became the 创leader创 of the Workshop sculptors - John Takawira, Bernard Takawira, Joram Mariga, Joseph Ndandarika, Thomas Mukarobgwa and Nicholas Mukomberanwa, soon acknowledged his ability.
Boira is perhaps best known for his monumental, and sometimes confrontational, heads. Often with large areas left exposed and un-worked, the features of these heads are powerfully placed and worked. They express the rawness and natural forces of Zimbabwe and hint at the wealth of 创unseen创 spiritual and cultural strength of its people.
He has been seen as a prominent and dedicated sculptor who has, over the years, built up a large body of sculptures, which have found their way into many exhibitions, private collections and museums throughout the world. He remains, as Joram Mariga once said, 创always the same - unassuming, friendly, helpful - not one to push himself - always proud and acknowledging the success of others创.
Boira Mteki made a considerable contribution to the art and culture of Zimbabwe; he was a remarkable artist and his pursuit of excellence, dedication and perseverance in adversity serve as an example to the young artists that follow his example.
Recent major works include The Dilemma of Twins, Chameleon Man, and Beer for the Spirits.
Boira Mteki passed away early in 1999.
Artist Sculpture:
Previous Artist: Bernard Matemera | Next Artist : Sylvester Mubayi