Artist Petrus Shiimi was not satisfied with a two-dimensional representation of an idea or object, so he decided on sculpting, which has since become his way of interacting with the world.

“I wanted to create things I could touch, feel; things other people could experience by walking around, through and over them,” he told VIBEZ! recently.

“Ninety per cent of my daily work is 3D objects. It’s something that brings me closer to creating an experience of real-life matters and forms.”

Shiimi said he was drawn to the craft, as he prefers to think in three dimensions, adding his sculpting experience came from knowledge gained at college, combined with studies of his surroundings and materials.

The 31-year-old artist’s favourite piece is the Andimba Toivo Ya Toivo metal bust that he created, saying it gave him a good challenge on mental perceptions. This piece is yet to be unveiled.

“When I choose materials, I consider the longevity and accessibility of the work: if it is outside where anyone can see it, and if it is made out of stone or stainless steel, so that it will be there for thousands of years,” stated Shiimi.

He added that in most of his work, he is more inspired by the quality and the aesthetics of the materials themselves and the end product after he treats the materials in different forms and shapes.

On how business is going, Shiimi said the cash flow fluctuates; thus, there is a need for people to know more about sculpting.

“Cash flow is up and down but sculpting really barely sells. We need public knowledge (education) about sculpture,” he expressed. 

Nevertheless, the visual artist encouraged those interested in pursuing sculpting to only do it if they have the passion for it, adding that with the right mission and energy, they should try their level best to do internet marketing, and produce samples and idea propositions to clients.

- psiririka@nepc.com.na