Do you master any specific techniques?
My work is mainly a combination of pottery techniques – slab work and moulding being the main ones. I also make my own glazes, which is not common in my country as people normally import ready-made glazes.
How do you express tradition and innovation in your work?
Working with dug clay has been done by many traditional potters in my culture for generations. I believe that working with this material is the first step to maintain tradition. The shapes I create have a very organic African look, fused with shapes from natural objects such as leaves, petals and other indigenous plants.
Wonai_Haruperi©Michelangelo_Foundation
Could your craft be considered in danger?
In my country, yes, I would say it is. Pottery has become such a costly profession that most big and small potteries have closed down, and there are only a few of us left. As for traditional Zimbabwean pottery, very, very few are still making pots the old way.
How are you helping to preserve your craft?
My husband and I are setting up a culture village where we will offer free accommodation and training to under-privileged Zimbabweans who want to learn different crafts to better their lives. Pottery is one of these crafts. I have years of teaching experience, and it is something I enjoy doing.