Victor Matafi, Soul Searching, Opal Stone, Unique, 59cm high, 36cm wide, 26cm deep

Soul Searching by Victor Matafi
Opal Stone, Unique, 59 cm (h) × 36 cm (w) × 26 cm (d)

Soul Searching is a captivating abstract sculpture by Zimbabwean Shona artist Victor Matafi. Expertly carved from a single piece of Opal Stone. This unique work showcases Matafi’s mastery of form and material. With a continuous, unbroken curl, the piece twists and flows in an elegant, fluid motion.

The sculpture’s graceful curves evoke a sense of introspection and movement, suggesting a journey both outward and inward. The polished surfaces highlight the natural beauty and subtle tonal variations of the Opal Stone. This enhances the sculpture’s organic vitality and reflective qualities.

Matafi’s work often explores themes of spirituality, growth, and transformation, and Soul Searching is a striking example of this philosophy. Its seamless, flowing form draws the viewer’s eye along the sculpture’s dynamic spiral, creating a sense of balance, continuity, and harmony.

Perfect for display as a contemplative centre-piece, this sculpture invites reflection on the human experience, personal growth, and the eternal search for meaning. It would be a timeless and thought-provoking addition to any collection.

Shona sculpture is the name given to a modern movement of stone carved sculpture created in Zimbabwe. The name derives from the ‘Shona’ tribe of people (a mixture of many similar tribes with closely related language and culture) who are the largest in Zimbabwe. The country itself gets its name thanks to the Shona people’s long artisanal tradition of stone working, meaning “house of stone”.