Bonnet House Museum & Gardens Announces ZimSculpt: An Exhibit Celebrating Contemporary Zimbabwean Stone Sculpture
- adriana
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is proud to announce its upcoming outdoor sculpture exhibition, ZimSculpt, that visitors will be able to view throughout the beautiful estate and gardens from January 18 through April 19, 2026, during regular Museum hours.
Honoring the artistic legacy of Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett, ZimSculpt will offer visitors a high-quality, immersive, and inspiring cultural experience showcasing over 2,000 hand-carved stone sculptures by 150 contemporary artists from Zimbabwe. Guest curators, Vivienne and Joseph Croisette, will display the works throughout the lush gardens and historic estate, transforming Bonnet House into a sanctuary of global artistry and craftsmanship. Visitors will experience the beauty, talent, and true spirit of Zimbabwe’s sculptural tradition.
In a shared commitment to celebrating global artistic traditions and preserving cultural history, Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is collaborating with the African American Research Library and Cultural Center to cross-promote their Zimbabwean sculpture exhibitions from February through April 2026. This is an alliance that amplifies both institutions’ missions and brings the beauty of Zimbabwean art to an even wider community.
Visitors will also enjoy daily live sculpting demonstrations by two world-renowned Zimbabwean artists, Passmore Mupindiko and Shine Muzika, providing a rare opportunity to see traditional Shona carving tools and techniques in action. Every piece on display – from bold garden centerpieces to intimate decorative works and meaningful keepsakes – will be available for purchase, with proceeds directly supporting the artists and their communities in Zimbabwe.
ZimSculpt Exhibit Opening Reception
Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Celebrate the opening of ZimSculpt with a special reception on the Waterfront Veranda where guests will enjoy light fare and cocktails provided by Hugh’s Catering, mingle with the artists, and get a first look at the exhibition’s breathtaking collection.
Cost: $50 per person which includes the Reception and the Exhibit
ZimSculpt – Outdoor Sculpture Exhibit from Zimbabwe
January 18 – April 19, 2026, from open to close daily
Honoring the artistic legacy of Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett, ZimSculpt, will provide a high-quality, immersive, and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages. Experience over 2,000 inspiring, hand-carved stone sculptures by 150 artists from Zimbabwe. The exhibit will include daily live demonstrations by two renowned artists sculpting on-site, offering an immersive look into traditional Shona carving tools and techniques. All artwork will be available for purchase – from bold garden centerpieces to small décor items and meaningful gifts – directly supporting Zimbabwean artists.
Cost: Included with General Admission (House and Grounds: $30 ($5 discount if purchased online), Grounds Only: $15)
ZimSculpt’s exhibitions have earned international acclaim, with pieces having been displayed in prestigious collections worldwide, including in the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Rodin Museum in Paris and the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The collection has even garnered the attention of prominent figures such as Sir Richard Attenborough, actor Morgan Freeman, the Rockefeller family, and the British Royal Household. The ZimSculpt Exhibition at Bonnet House is made possible by donors Jim & Lynn LaBate, Sherry Walters, and Victoria Kirby.
For tickets, hours, and more information, please visit: Bonnethouse.org/outdoor-exhibits.
Admission Prices Effective January 1, 2026: Self-Guided Tours: $30 ($5 discount if purchased online), Guided Tours: $35, Upstairs Tour: $40, Grounds Tour Only: $15
About the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens:
Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Bonnet House Museum & Gardens is a 35-acre subtropical estate and historic house museum located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale. Bonnet House, Inc. is a nonprofit, 501c3, whose mission is to celebrate the story of Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett, and preserve the art, history and nature of Bonnet House, providing inspiration and respite for all. Bonnet House is located at 900 North Birch Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 and is open for tours Tuesday–Friday from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and Saturday—Sunday from 11 a.m.– 4 p.m. and closed on Mondays, New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Guided tours are also available. Members are always free. For more information, please visit www.bonnethouse.org.