MEYAVE STONE SCULPTURES

What does the name of your gallery “Meyavé” mean?

The name “Meyavé” is actually a Hebrew word that means to bring something from one place to another (aka import).

 What is your vision when creating or procuring your selections for the gallery?

I want it to be grounding and real, but also something that sparks people’s imagination. In a world filled with plastic, factory-made, or molded products, I want to bring raw, real nature back into the home or office.  

How did you become involved in the art world?

As far back as I can remember, I have had a strong connection to nature, specifically stone and water. I love the mix of raw, natural stone, and clean, modern lines, shapes, and angles.  I design sculptures that remind me of those raw, rock faces seen in nature, and the lines and angles of modern architecture are another passion of mine. 

 How did you become involved in African art?

I discovered Zimbabwe in 1998, when I was volunteering with an anti-poaching unit for 4 months on a private black rhino conservancy. I immediately felt a connection with the stone sculptures that I encountered there, and began learning about this art form, which only emerged in the late 50’s and 60’s. Over time, I learned more and more, and enjoyed the adventure of seeking out the best artists and quality work, ending me up in some very “interesting” places.  Since then, I have forged many great relationships with my favorite artists, and due to all the years working with them, I have learned who would be best to work with on my own designs, both in terms of skills, and personality. I spend approximately three months of the year working in Zimbabwe, both on my own designs, collaborative designs, and searching out beautiful works from other artists.    

 What is the sculpture work process like?

Aside from the design aspect, usually a chisel is used to shape the stone. Some artists then use discs or grinders to further shape it, and then a rasp is used (like a file) to start to make the surface smooth. Next the stone is sanded from the roughest grit of sandpaper all the way all the way to finest.  It is then washed and heated by a blow torch.  When it is hot, floor wax is applied and melted into the stone.  Once the piece cools down, it is buffed out to bring out the shine.

 How would you describe your approach to the sculptures that you select for your gallery?

There are a variety of factors.  The first is simply that a piece speaks to me either in an emotional way or I think it is unique design and I like it or think my clients might like it. Then there is the quality. I have a high standard of quality.  Does it have a good solid base?  I look at the finish, the shape, the theme. I can see when part of the process is done in a sloppy way. I have worked with these artists for such a long time that I can tell if corners were cut. For example, if there are scratch marks or lines on the surface, I know that the artist may have skipped some levels in the sanding process that I described earlier.

Do you plan to travel to any other countries to discover different artists or art forms?   

My main focus is sculptures from Zimbabwe, but I also travel to Columbia. The indigenous women in western Columbia do beautiful basketry. Their baskets and designs are suitable in both southwest or native décor, and they look really good in a modern setting as well.  The colors and designs are very modern. I try to travel as much as possible and am always looking for new styles of art that have not been seen here and that you can’t easily find. 

Visit Itai at Meyavé Stone Sculptures, located at 78100 Main Street, suite 104.  Discover a hidden treasure chest of authentic handcrafted artistry. Explore the largest collection of natural stone sculptures, created by the hands of empowered artists earning a living through hard work and talent.