Arts
Wooden artwork and stone carving captivate festivalgoers─── REFILWE BEKANE 10:43 Wed, 16 Jul 2025
The annual Vrystaat Kunstefees is buzzing with energy, and crowds are flocking to the Bloemfontein campus of the University of the Free State to explore its vibrant offerings.
The festival grounds are alive with diverse stalls, each showcasing unique artistic creations and contributing to the overwhelmingly positive and celebratory mood.
Among the many captivating displays highlighting the rich tapestry of South African artistry and dedication, two stalls stood out, one with wooden artwork and the other with stone carving.
The Stormsriver Arts and Crafts Centre, a cherished family business run by Charles Kumwenda and his relatives, is a magnet for visitors. The initial request mentioned San artwork made of wood, and their wooden creations are truly captivating festivalgoers.
The Kumwendas’ wooden creations truly captivate festivalgoers. Photo: Refilwe Bekane
Kumwenda’s journey is intertwined with his craft. “I have made the woodwork since I was young. I never went to school and made a living out of this,” he said, a testament to his lifelong dedication.
The Kumwendas’ early start is evident in the remarkable creativity and precision of their work. The business produces a stunning variety of wooden items, from intricately designed chess tables to pieces that honour the rich heritage of the Khoi San people.
Their stall offers visitors a direct connection to indigenous art forms and the enduring legacy of South African craftsmanship.
Stone carved by Tonjai Gumarra. Photo: Refilwe Bekane
Adding another dimension to the festival’s artistic diversity is the stone carving section, featuring artists like Tonjai Gumarra. Gumarra creates breathtaking artworks purely from natural stones, without the use of any welding or artificial joining.
Each piece is a testimony to the raw beauty of the earth and the skill of the human hand, shaping what nature provides into captivating sculptures.
The festival continues to be a vibrant platform for local talent, offering a joyful celebration of art, culture, and the spirit of entrepreneurship.
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