AN exhibition of Zimbabwean Shona sculpture has been launched at Newby Hall near Ripon.

To mark the event, a VIP reception was attended by seasonal ticket holders and VIPs held on Thursday May 31.

The extensive collection is curated by Orlando Compton, whose family owns Newby Hall, together with travelling Zimbabwean sculptors Chenjerai Chiripanyanga, Dudzai Mushawepwere and Matthew Nakhawale who are artists in residence at Newby over the summer.

And following a successful debut last year, visitors to Knebworth House in Hertfordshire will be able to enjoy their own Matombo exhibition installed in the 28 acres of formal gardens over the summer.

Now in its 13th year of residency at Newby Hall, the outdoor sculpture exhibition will be on permanent display in the award-winning gardens and open to the public until September 30 or by appointment.

Featuring the work of renowned and emerging artists from all over Zimbabwe, the sculptures are purchased directly from solo artists, community workshops and co-operatives and are available to buy until the end of the exhibition in September.

Visitors can not only watch Dudzai, Matthew and Chenjerai demonstrating how the sculptures are created, but get hands-on and learn new sculpting skills under the watchful eye of the experts.

Orlando Compton said: “The arrival of Matombo Sculpture at Newby is always keenly anticipated and we’re delighted to host this year’s collection again in the grounds at Newby.

“We travelled extensively around Zimbabwe to seek out really unusual pieces in different styles to highlight the rich artistic culture of Zimbabwe - so there really is something for everyone”.

“And we’re delighted once again to be showcasing the collection to a wider audience with another of the UK’s privately owned stately homes, Knebworth.”

Newby Hall and gardens is open every day until September 30 from open from 11am to 5pm, adults £12.50 and children £9.50. Children under 4 are free. The admission price includes entry into the event and to the gardens, including the adventure playground. For more information go to www.newbyhall.com.

Visit the Matombo website www.matombo.com for more information or email matombo @sales@matombo.com.