ZimArt Rice Lake Gallery

Art lovers exploring Ontario’s Kawartha region should make a stop at Rice Lake Gallery, located on a picturesque farm overlooking the lake, to enjoy one of the world’s most comprehensive collections of Shona sculpture outside of Zimbabwe.

Perhaps best described as a museum set in the great outdoors, dozens of pieces of hand-carved African stone artwork -- some reaching a height of 9 feet – are displayed in the gorgeous Kawartha landscape.

Fran Fearnley, who founded Rice Lake Gallery in 2000, has become a respected authority on Shona sculpture. She spends several months each year in Zimbabwe working with artist communities, bringing the finest pieces back to Canada.

As part of her commitment to supporting the sculptors and their families, each year she flies in an artist-in-residence to hold a series of week-long sculpting workshops. These sessions require reservations well in advance to secure a spot. All proceeds go to the artist.

Visits to the gallery are free, with voluntary donations helping to finance HIV/AIDS projects in Zimbabwe. The gallery hosts an exhibition every September which draws thousands of visitors from within and outside the region.

The story of Rice Lake Gallery is attracting interest from around the world, with media coverage in major Canadian and international outlets, including CNN. Visit zimart.ca for extensive photos and video footage, as well as background on the Shona art form.