Soul of the Stone: A Living Sculpture Journey from Zimbabwe to Chicago

Internationally-Acclaimed Sculptor, Ishmael Chitiyo, Commissioned to Create Stone Sculpture for the Field Museum

CHICAGO, Sept. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Gallery Guichard and Donate Life Illinois proudly present "Soul of the Stone," an eight-month cultural and artistic experience celebrating the rich tradition of Zimbabwean Shona stone sculptures, in partnership with the Field Museum, the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), the Chicago Park District, Garfield Park Conservatory, South Shore Cultural Center and Gift of Hope Organ & Tissue Donor Network.

At the heart of this extraordinary exhibition is internationally-recognized Zimbabwean sculptor Ishmael Chitiyo, who has been commissioned to create a stone sculpture that will be featured in the Field Museum's new Africa Hall, opening in 2028. As one of the largest and few Shona sculpture exhibits in the United States, Chicago will have the rare opportunity to discover the profound connection between the stone and the spiritual world, while experiencing the artistry and history of the Shona Tribe.

With more than 150 Shona sculptures on exhibition across partner galleries and locations through early 2027, Chicago communities are invited to register via the event links to attend each location's opening reception, to explore and experience a different part of the art installations and the city's diverse neighborhoods.

• Garfield Park Conservatory
  300 N Central Park Ave, Chicago
  Sept. 5, 12-2 p.m.
• City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE)
  78 E Washington St, Chicago
  Sept. 11, 6-8 p.m.
• Gallery Guichard
  436 E 47^th St, Chicago
  Sept. 18, 6-9 p.m.
• South Shore Cultural Center 
  7059 S South Shore Drive, Chicago
  Sept. 26, 12-2 p.m.
• Field Museum
  1400 S DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
  Oct. 3, 12-4 p.m.

"The 'Soul of the Stone' exhibition allows the public to witness something rarely seen—the transformation of Shona stones into monumental works of art," said Gallery Guichard Co-Owners Andre and Frances Guichard. "People will not simply view the finished sculptures; they will become part of their story by visiting each exhibition across the city, and we're honored to bring this experience to Chicago with our talented artists and community partners."

During Gallery Guichard's first journey to Zimbabwe, more than 150 sculptures were brought to the United States, placing over 120 cultural works into private and corporate collections. Their most recent acquisition included over 170 sculptures, further strengthening the connection between Zimbabwean artists and American art collectors.

Featured Zimbabwean artists in the exhibition include: Ishmael Chitiyo, Chenjerai Chiripanyanga, Lovemore Bonjisi, Owen Mlungisi, Tawanda Seremwe, and more. Each sculptor draws inspiration from the mbira, a traditional music instrument integral to the Shona people. Its enchanting sounds serve as a call to the ancestors, guiding artists on their journey to sculpt unique and powerful artwork.

About Gallery Guichard
Located in Chicago's historic Bronzeville neighborhood, Gallery Guichard is a premier fine art gallery and cultural destination dedicated to showcasing artists from across the African Diaspora for 21 years. Through exhibitions, educational programming, international cultural exchanges, and community engagement, Gallery Guichard continues to build bridges between artists, collectors, and communities worldwide. For exhibition schedules, artist appearances, collector events, and educational programming, please contact Gallery Guichard or visit Gallery Guichard's website and social media channels.

Media Contact:
Tony Balasandiran

[email protected]

SOURCE Gallery Guichard