These are the most recognized and respected artists in Zimbabwe and some of the finest stone sculptors in the world. These artists have benefited greatly from sculpting and have helped define the Shona movement in the process. Many of the artists in the other categories entered sculpting to emulate these artists and aspire to their success.

Almost all of the well-known artists have established themselves near Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe, both to be nearer the galleries and collectors that promote and support them and to provide a better quality of life for themselves and their families. They are found in many of Harare's finest suburbs and have all traveled abroad for multiple exhibitions of their work. They drive nice cars and live at the most affluent levels of Zimbabwean society. They are known by all major galleries in the world that promote Shona Sculpture as their primary focus.

Some of these artists were the pioneers of the rebirth of Shona sculpture from the 1960's and 70's. Some are newer artists whose vision and creativity has shot them to fame and popularity. All have a unique vision and signature in stone that helps define what Shona sculpture is today.

The artists listed below and in other categories are ones whose work Imba Gallery exhibits. The list is by no means exhaustive or complete. Some artists are omitted due to their passing, as most of the first generation has, or omitted due to a lack of their work in the gallery at present. We carry over 100 artist's work at any one time, which is only a fraction of the many thousands who carve stone in Zimbabwe. Each gallery networks and collects according to its own parameters. We feel these artists represent Shona Sculpture at its best.

A word of thanks go out to the many late artists who pioneered Shona Sculpture onto the world stage over the last 50 years. They paved the road for the success that the Shona Sculpture movement enjoys today. Generally referred to as the First Generation, only a handful survive today. Listed are 10 artists that shaped all those that came after them…Bernard Matamera, Joseph Ndandarika, Thomas Mukarabgwa, Henry Munyardzi, Joram Mariga, Nicholas Mukomberanwa, John Takawira, Bernard Takawira, and Boira Mteki.