Happy New Family by Vengai Chiwawa, Opal Stone, Unique, 145cm high by 50cm wide by 60cm deep, sculpture

This piece by Vengai Chiwawa is a striking Shona opal stone sculpture, that depicts a tall bird with two smaller birds nestled at its feet, forming a harmonious family grouping. The tallest bird towers over the smaller ones, its long neck curving gently so its beak rests atop one of the smaller birds’ heads. This gesture conveys care and protection, establishing a clear sense of connection within the family.

The two smaller birds mirror each other, their beaks lightly touching, which creates a subtle rhythm and reinforces the sense of unity. All three birds are carved from a single piece of stone and rest on a shared stand, giving the composition stability and coherence. Chiwawa’s carving emphasizes gentle curves and flowing lines, enhancing the natural elegance of the birds while maintaining a stylized form.

Colour contrasts enhance the sculpture’s visual impact. The darker tones on the birds’ beaks, eyes, wings, and underbellies stand out against the lighter stone of their bodies, emphasizing each element while uniting the family as a single harmonious form. The smooth, polished surfaces highlight the opal’s natural variations, catching light in a way that animates the birds and brings warmth to the composition.

Overall, Happy New Family balances abstraction with recognition, blending movement, affection, and natural beauty into a single elegant, monumental work.