A MAJOR exhibition of Zimbabwean stone sculptures has been unveiled at one of North Yorkshire’s stately homes.

The extensive collection has been assembled by Orlando Compton together with Zimbabwean sculptors Chenjerai Chiripanyanga, Dudzai Mushawepwere and Matthew Nakhawale who are resident artists at the event.

The collection at Newby Hall, near Ripon, is believed to be the largest display of such sculpture in the North and will be on permanent display in the walled gardens and open to the public until October 1.

Featuring the work of more than 40 artists, the artwork comes from many different parts of Zimbabwe.

The sculptures are purchased directly from solo artists, small workshops and co-operatives and all are available to buy until the end of the exhibition in September.

Local school children and other visitors will have the opportunity to watch Dudzai, Matthew and Chenjerai at work, as well as having a go at creating a sculpture themselves under close supervision.

Mr Compton said: “We are delighted to welcome the Matombo collection to Newby Hall again this year.

“This year marks the twelfth year that Newby has hosted Matombo which means ‘stone’ in the Shona language. Each year we bring different artists and styles to the show and it is always tremendously popular with visitors.

“Art and culture is passed from generation to generation in Zimbabwe and it’s great to be able to support the artists at a troubled time for the country.”