Leonard Gondongwe was born in Harare, the Capital of Zimbabwe. He’s the second child in a family of five – 4 boys and 1 girl.
He did his primary and secondary education in Harare. He proceeded to the University Of Zimbabwe to study BSc (nutritional science). Due to financial difficulty he dropped out in the second year and looked for employment.
In 2003 he was invited to work at the famous Lameck Bonjisi Workshop. Lameck was a student of the legendary Nicholas Mukomberanwa. Leonard worked closely with Lovemore Bonjisi, Lameck’s younger brother, working on small stones given to him. His talent could not be hidden for long. Collectors and buyers encouraged him to work on bigger sculptures.
Today Leonard creates remarkable and expressive sculptures. His art takes much of it’s influence from life as we see it. Sharp angles and dynamic movements have made his style eye catching.
His work has been showcased worldwide.
Exhibitions:
2007 National Gallery of Zimbabwe, Harare
2008 Caledon Gardens, Freestate, South Africa