Zimbabwe Artist Experience

Hi!

As many of you know, I am currently studying art at the College for Creative Studies in Detroit, I’ve been deeply inspired by one of my professors, Chido Johnson. Originally from Zimbabwe, he organizes an unparalleled independent program that bridges students with Zimbabwe artists, focusing primarily on the revered tradition of stone carving—a craft that Zimbabwe is world-renowned for, especially its Shona sculpture.

over the past semester I have been connected with Zimbabwe artist's, we have been coordinating on collaborative projects. For example I built a wind chime out of organic materials. This was responding to a Zimbabwe artist who did the same. Together we will be exhibiting these works side by side in the Zimbabwe National Art Gallery.

This immersive experience goes beyond the studio, offering explorations into Zimbabwe’s monumental landscapes and historical treasures, from Zimbabwe ruins and Victoria Falls, to the wild heart of Hwange National Park, home to an incredible array of wildlife including elephants, lions, and rhinos.

Furthermore, I will be meeting my mom in South Africa after the program to embark on a separate adventure.

Participating in this program is a dream that promises to profoundly enrich my artistic voice and vision. However, it comes with significant costs, encompassing travel, accommodations, materials, and the honor of learning from Zimbabwe’s master stone carvers. It's a substantial investment in a once-in-a-lifetime educational experience that will undoubtedly shape my artistic future.

To make this dream a reality, I’ve launched a donation-based campaign, offering unique rewards as a token of my gratitude for your support. Each contribution not only supports my artistic exploration but also gives back to the local art community in Zimbabwe, as I'm committing to donate 10% of all funds raised to the artists we are studying under.

Your support not only propels me towards this incredible educational opportunity but also strengthens the cultural bridge between artists across continents.

Thank you for considering supporting my journey to Zimbabwe. Together, we can make this experience a reality, and I can't wait to share the inspiration and artwork born from this adventure with each of you.

With heartfelt gratitude, Axel Livingston

$ 50 - 100

6-6in life drawing made from Zimbabwe graphite/charcoal

$ 150-250

6-6in Painting made from Zimbabwe paints and natural pigments

$ 500 - 950

11-14in Painting made from Zimbabwe paints and natural pigments

$ 1000 - 1500

Smaller scale wood carving made from a selection of beautiful Zimbabwe hard wood

$ 2000- 3500

Smaller scale stone carving made from a type of precious Zimbabwe serpentine. Such as the following. Mesmerizing native dark Spring stone. Exotic speckled Leopard rock. Tasteful Fruit serpentine. Enchanting opal stone.

$ 5000+

Larger 20 - 100lb stone carving made from a type of precious Zimbabwe serpentine. Such as the following. Mesmerizing native dark Spring stone. Exotic speckled Leopard rock. Tasteful Fruit serpentine. Enchanting opal stone.