Gender Dynamics in Zimbabwe's Sculpture Art Sector: An Analysis of Women Sculptor Entrepreneurs' Status and Technology-Based Challenges

Abstract

This study investigates the status of women sculptor entrepreneurs in Zimbabwe's creative industry (CI), examining institutional marginalisation and barriers to entrepreneurial development. Employing a qualitative methodology incorporating focus group discussions, individual interviews, and observational data, the research reveals significant gender disparities in recognition, resource allocation, and institutional support. Findings indicate systemic marginalisation of women sculptors in key institutions, including art centres and national recognition platforms like National Arts and Music Awards (NAMAs). It is evident that the entrepreneurs face many challenges, including -non-recognition of the effort and years of commitment made to the industry, lack of financial support, exclusion in marketing and exhibition strategies locally and abroad, and fear to embrace digital literacy, lack of knowledge, cybersecurity threats and training on business. The study proposes a Gender- NGENGANI VOL. 4(1), 2025 25 Entrepreneurial Development (GRED) model with important antecedents for entrepreneurship development. The model can be used to address identified disparities and enhance women's participation in the sculptural arts sector.