Dominic BenhuraLEAPFROG
Dominic Benhura
ZIMBABWE (1968)
/ THE WORK
LEAPFROG, 2000
SPRINGSTONE
Inspired by observing his own children and his commitment to Third World children, in this work – entitled Leapfrog, our game of leapfrog – Benhura gives shape to the universal ability of children to come together in play. She carves the figures from springstone, the ubiquitous black stone of Zimbabwe, traditionally used by sculptors for its rich color palette, brown, green, red and orange, as well as its sculptural properties.
The charm of this work lies in the skill in which the artist manages to capture the dynamic movement and psychological interaction between the figures: each child is completely absorbed in his play. Because, as Benhura himself claims, “whatever happens in the world today, children will continue to jump and see life with the carefreeness of their age.”
Dominic Benhura
ZIMBABWE (1968)
BIOGRAPHY
Dominic Benhura was born in 1968 in a small town, some 100 km northeast of Zimbabwe’s capital, Harare. At the age of 12 Dominic began to assist his cousin, the sculptor Tapfuma Gutsa, and soon after to create his own works. Four years later, he divided his time between high school studies and sculpture and exhibited his work in group exhibitions in the country’s capital, Harare. He trained professionally at the “Chapungu Sculpture Park” and began to gain international recognition: today he is considered one of the greatest exponents of Shona sculpture (which indicates Zimbabwe’s long tradition of stone sculpture) and his works are present in museums, art collections and public spaces around the world.
His subject matters are extensive and include plants, trees, animals and the whole range of human experience. Benhura has an exceptional ability to portray human feelings through form rather than facial expression. His work is bold and captures balance and movement; his desire to experiment leads him to use different materials, driven by the need to explore new ideas, concepts, techniques and methods to express simple and powerful ideas. Nature, family and the relationship with his children are the main inspiration for his sculptures which, in fact, often include scenes of everyday life and family life.
USEFUL INFORMATION
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HOW TO REACH US
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By paved road from Siena, take the SP408 to Ponte a Bozzone. Turn left at the church and follow the signs for Pievasciata / Sculpture Park. We are about 15 km from Siena.
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THE WALK
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The walk round the Park is about 1,5 km and it is suitable for baby buggies and wheelchair users. Upon request we offer a tour of the Park in an electric buggy for those with mobility issues. Contact us for further information.
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OPENING HOURS AND TICKETS
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Open every day (including Sundays and holidays) from 10am to 6pm. Last entry one hour before closing.
Tickets: €10 adults | € 5 reduced – under 18 yrs | Free 0-4 yrs
Booking is not necessary. The Chianti Sculpture Park APP – available for free on Apple Store and Google Play Store – is an excellent audio guide!
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GROUPS
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Groups of more than 12 people are asked to book entry in advance, to facilitate organisation.
Guided tours are available in Italian and English upon reservation.
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A VISIT FOR EVERYONE
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The visit to the Park lasts an hour and a half on average and it is absolutely suitable for children! Our four-legged friends are welcome providing they are kept on a lead and any ‘deposits’ are removed! The park does not have a restaurant, but we will be happy to recommend some restaurants that can be reached by car in a few minutes. A picnic area is available.
CHIANTI SCULPTURE PARK
Strada provinciale 9, 48
53019 Pievasciata - Castelnuovo Berardenga (Si)
P.I. 01181460526 C.F. 92044080528
Phone: +39 0577 357151 E-mail: info@parcosculturechianti.it
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