About this Sculpture
- Artist: Lameck Bonjisi
- Medium: Springstone Granite
Whispers
About the Artist
Lameck was born in Zimbabwe, the home of the Shona people who are master stone carvers. The name Zimbabwe actually means “house of stone.” There are nearly 40 different types of granite which gave birth to this long tradition of stone working and carving by hand.
Lameck started sculpting at age 17, working as an assistant to a renowned Shona sculptor before setting out on his own. He died in 2004 at the young age of 30. His younger brothers were fortunate to be mentored by him and, as a lasting legacy, have achieved international renown of their own.
Lameck’s visual message is about African traditions and values that center on family, love, ancestral bonds, and the spiritual and natural worlds. The title Whispers invites viewers to move closer and hear a quiet, wise voice speak.
Location
115 Butler St., Saugatuck, MI 49453
Experience this Sculpture
Walk around the sculpture.
- Look at the piece from a different angle. What do you notice?
- The many diagonals which make the sculpture appear to be unsteady. Imagine the weight of this granite.
- Even though it is balanced on a small part of the stone, it is still very stable.
Step back and look at the outline of the sculpture.
- Do you see the continent of Africa?
- The center of the two figures is very similar to the shape of their beloved continent.
Move closer to the two faces
- What is the shape that separates the two heads? The half circle that is the ear.
- Witness the comfort and ease and contentment that comes from listening closely to a loved one. Sharing secrets. Sharing deep and lasting bonds.
