In early 2020, a couple from Brittany visited an exhibition of René Alemawo’s sculptures. His style reminded them of a sculpture of a Baobab tree that they had bought as a souvenir of a special visit to Mozambique many years ago. The sculpture had great sentimental value, but it was very small. They asked if René could create a Baobab tree in the size that they wanted. René prefers not to copy the work of others, so he didn’t ask for a photo of the original sculpture, but instead, used his intuition to sculpt a Baobab that symbolised the friendship that the couple cherished.
Back in Senegal, René took time to search for a suitable piece of raw wood that was of the right quality and density.Slowly he started to give it shape, and to draw out the significance of each part of the sculpture, using simple tools: an axe, wooden hammer, chisels, files, rasps, sandpaper, etc.
The base
… wide and solid, represents the foundation of the couple’s relationship – stable, strong, unshakable…
The double trunk
… two lives intertwined – as if dancing together, yet allowing each other the freedom to dance to their own tune.
The branches
… spreading out like the fingers of two hands – sharing, giving, generous, open …
The leaves
… each one unique, yet together they create a beautiful canopy – symbolising the variety of qualities in each person, that complement each other and bring unity and happiness.
The happy couple
…receive the Baobab tree that they had dreamed of for many years – a symbol of their lifelong friendship.
