Rufaro Murenza
Born
Rufaro Murenza was born in 1980 in Zimbabwe.
Education
While studying for his ‘O’ levels, Murenza began working as an assistant to the renowned Zimbabwean sculptor Joe Mutasa at Chapungu Sculpture Park in Msasa, Harare. During his time at Chapungu Sculpture Park, Murenza was exposed to other artists such as Tapfuma Gutsa, Nicholas Mukomberanwa, and Eddie Masaya, whose exploration of granite carving had a lasting impact on his artistic direction. In 1998, he attended a granite carving workshop at Chapungu led by Joram Mariga, alongside two visiting Japanese sculptors.
Career
Murenza’s early career was shaped through his mentorship with Joe Mutasa, including a successful 1998 exhibition in Belgium where all exhibited works were sold and further commissions secured. After many years of collaboration, he chose to pursue an independent career, joining the Chitungwiza Arts Centre where he established his own workspace. With growing experience, he expressed confidence in his future as an independent sculptor and has since achieved sustained success in his field.
Materials
Murenza works primarily in granite and stone.
Awards & Exhibitions
Murenza has received significant recognition through the National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA). He won the 3D Sculpture category in 2015 and has been a finalist multiple times, in 2014, 2016, 2017, and 2020, earning a record number of nominations. His exhibitions include international showcases, notably in Belgium, as well as continued recognition through repeated appearances at NAMA.
Rufaro Murenza sculptures are available from the sculpture park.
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Female £2,575 inc VATLife-size Stone Female Bust Sculpture – African Queen by Rufaro Murenza (Unique)
African Queen by Rufaro Murenza, Granite Stone
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Children £3,600 inc VATLarge Stone Family Sculpture – My First Born Daughter by Rufaro Murenza (Unique)
My First Born Daughter by Rufaro Murenza, Springstone
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Contemporary £2,100 inc VATLarge Stone Figurative Female Sculpture – Waiting to engage by Rufaro Murenza (Unique)
Waiting to engage by Rufaro Murenza , Springstone