Zulu Queen Sculpture

I am Tendekayi Tigere Tandi, a Zimbabwean sculptor working in stone, wood, and metal. My artistic journey began at the age of five, when carving was simply part of everyday life in my family. I grew up learning directly from two master artists—my grandfather Gabriel Tandi and my father Thomas Tandi—whose skill, discipline, and creativity shaped my foundation as an artist. Their influence remains the driving force behind my work. By the age of nine, I was already creating and selling small pieces at school, beginning a path that has grown into a lifelong dedication to art. My sculptures draw deeply from Shona culture and the natural materials of Zimbabwe, expressing emotion, movement, and the stories of my heritage. I combine traditional methods taught by my family with a contemporary artistic vision. I have exhibited my work internationally and completed numerous private and public commissions. I am also passionate about teaching, sharing the knowledge passed down through generations with people of all ages, and keeping our sculptural traditions alive. Every piece I create is a tribute to my roots, my teachers, and the enduring spirit of Zimbabwean artistry.