The Sunday News
Peter Matika, Senior Life Reporter
A VICTORIA Falls-based sculptor, inspired by the rather lewd sexual activity at a lodge in the resort town, has led him to fashion some of the most eccentric phenomenons in human behaviour.
The unconventional sculptor Dexter Nyamayenashe, who says he has been in the business since 1994, marvelously captures the process of courting between a man and a woman and the garden-variety of activity that transpires at the lodge.
Dexter makes tiny and life-sized sculptures of animals, human beings, insects, plants, and fungi from old books and other recycled materials.
He works mostly with plastic, paper and textiles, adding colour or detail using paints, embroidery, and metal wire.
Then, he displays the delicate models in small collections or dioramas. Dexter says his work is inspired by a lifelong love of things around him. He grew up and lives in Victoria Falls.
“As a child I spent a lot of time collecting bits and pieces in tins or boxes, which I would take with me. This has had a huge influence on my work, along with my love of botanical illustrations, the natural sciences and the nostalgia of visits to rural areas where, as a child, I would be mesmerised by the variety of things around,” he said.
Dexter exhibits his work at the entrance of the Elephants Walk Shopping and Artistes Village.
“I am able to tell different stories from my work. Through my mind I am able to capture various stories. I mostly tell tales of Africa through my work, which is quite popular among the tourists. With the other stuff, well, I mostly do it privately and make and sell them as per request.
“My recent works, which is inspired by activity at a local lodge is quite popular among tourists and other locals and it just sells for $25,” said Dexter.
If you are looking to have a good time or enjoy good company the said lodge is one of the few spots that offer a wide range of activities on most nights.
It is a brightly coloured lodge, which is situated five minutes from the town centre, it’s not luxurious but laid back and definitely for the young at heart, who are more interested in a party than a good night’s sleep.
The lodge also has its own curio shop at the bottom of the garden and you are able to book all your activities on site through their sister company. There is a swimming pool and a big shady garden with tables and chairs dotted around.
