Willard Bopoto
Born
Willard was born in 1985 in Guruve District, Mashonaland Central Province, Zimbabwe.
Early Life
From a young age, Willard showed a strong interest in art, with art and craft being his favourite subject in primary school. Growing up in a region rich in stone deposits, he spent much of his childhood experimenting with different types of stone.
At just ten years old, he sold his first sculpture to an American buyer. Around the same time, his teacher encouraged him by asking him to display his work to his class. His father, also an artist, further inspired him to continue carving. He later sold another piece during secondary school, reinforcing his decision to pursue art.
Education
He completed his O Levels before committing to sculpture full-time.
Career
After finishing school, Willard became a full-time sculptor. He has been exhibiting his work since 2004 and has shown his sculptures in various locations. Some of his works are held in the National Gallery of Zimbabwe.
Materials
He primarily works with stone, experimenting with various types found in Zimbabwe.
Style & Subject
His work is rooted in the Shona sculpting tradition, characterized by twisting and winding abstract forms. His sculptures reflect both technical skill and a deep connection to the material.
His artistic philosophy is captured in his motto: “If you like doing, you do it well, then continue doing for the rest of your life.”
Awards & Exhibitions
He has exhibited his work in multiple venues since 2004, and his pieces are included in the collection of the National Gallery of Zimbabwe.
Willard Bopoto sculptures are available from the sculpture park.
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Abstract £4,200 inc VATLarge Stone Abstract Shona Sculpture – Coming Together by Willard Bopoto (Unique)
Coming Together by Willard Bopoto, Avocado Stone
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Shona £3,200 inc VATLarge Abstract Swirl Stone Sculpture – Circulating Wave by Willard Bopoto (Unique)
Circulating Wave by Willard Bopoto, Avocado Stone,
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Abstract £1,650 inc VATTabletop Abstract Stone Sculpture – Beyond Just Being Friends by Willard Bopoto (Unique)
Beyond Just Being Friends by Willard Bopoto, Avocado Stone
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Abstract £2,950 inc VATLarge Stone Abstract Sculpture – Soul Searching by Willard Bopoto (Unique)
Soul Searching by Willard Bopoto, Avocado Stone
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Abstract £5,990 inc VATLarge Stone Abstract Sculpture – Best Times by Willard Bopoto (unique)
Best Times by Willard Bopoto, Avocado Stone
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Abstract £31,865 inc VATMonumental Abstract Stone Sculpture – Feeling of Happiness by Willard Bopoto (unique)
Feeling of Happiness by Willard Bopoto, Avocado Stone
Abstract Zimbabwean Shona sculpture in a beautiful avocado stone. Green infinite curves bend and twist around themselves creating a stunning garden focal sculpture