Batanai Artworks is a Gallery of exceptional African art from Southern Africa. We provide the highest quality stone sculpture crafted by master sculptors - artwork with investment value. www.batanai.co.za
Fanie - Artist of the family spirit
Fanuel Mutemasango is a South African of Shona descent.
Fanie specialises in abstract stone sculptures, working in Verdite and Africa Stone. His joy is in creating pieces depicting the family, unity and togetherness.
In Shona culture, life closely revolves around deep family relationships. Everyone shares with one another and finds peace through the love of all.
Fanie teaches us about “Ukama” – that the simple love of parent for child, of family member for family member, of neighbour for neighbour, can be powerful. He teaches us about the stone, spirit, love, family and togetherness.
To meet the demands of flowing sculptures and to give greater depth of expression in his abstract art, Fanie uses Africa Stone, which consists of the best characteristics to meet his spirit of expression.
“If the grains and structures of the stones are carefully observed and worked on, arches and flowing lines can be carved without structurally weakening the work. When polished, a smooth lustrous finish is obtained, or the surface can be carved to achieve various desired effects”.
Mother Nature is a powerful source of inspiration for Fanuel – the mountains, clouds and surrounding landscape, inspire him
When inspiration strikes, Fanuel is transformed into a man possessed by an extreme urgency to transform his visions and passions into reality. Using a chipping hammer, he rough-shapes the stone block after having carefully studied its structure. The work is then further shaped with smaller chipping hammers and chisels.
Fanuel is renowned for his pieces depicting people, in particular the family and children. His sculptures on this theme often feature people with hands joined, symbolising the graceful harmony and unity of people and families that exist in the world.
Other sculptures explore the world of animal unity, creating art that has many dimensions to view and explore, taking the observer into Fanie’s world of creative thinking and talent, while leaving individuals to make their own interpretations.
His work often challenges the observer, exploring emotional depth and the spirit of people and animals. His personal Totem is the elephant, and this often appears in subtle forms in his work.
His love of people and family, along with his joy and understanding of the richness of the family spirit, stands out clearly.
Although based in the African tradition of family life and harmony with nature, these values are universally meaningful, regardless of colour, creed or religion.
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