I never thought I’d say this, but the air felt different at Chapungu Sculpture Park. Not in the poetic, exaggerated way people sometimes describe places, but in a way that made me pause, breathe deeper, and wonder why. Then it hit me: this place grows its atmosphere, literally. Trees everywhere, thoughtfully planted and lovingly labelled, each one contributing to the serenity that hangs in the air.

One tree in particular caught my attention, the fever tree. Its name alone sounds like something out of folklore, and true to its reputation, I learned that boiling pieces of its bark is said to have healing properties. That’s the kind of knowledge you don’t just stumble upon; it’s gifted to you by the land and its caretakers. I’ll admit, I’m not the most botanically literate person. Apart from the Eucalyptus, most of the trees were strangers to me. My tour guide was visibly disappointed when I didn’t recognise the Ficus Sur—the fig tree. I only knew of it from a church song that speaks of joy even when the fig tree bears no fruit. But now, I’ll remember it for something else entirely: the goosebumps I got watching ants swarm around the figs. 

Nature, in all its raw choreography, was putting on a show. And then there’s the dam. Quiet, reflective, and probably one of the reasons the air feels so alive. It’s not just water but a silent contributor to the park’s tranquil ecosystem. But Chapungu isn’t just about trees and air, it’s about art. Evident by the sculptures scattered across the grounds. By now, you know I always pick a favourite, and in this case, it was of a mother holding her baby, planting a kiss on her cheek. My mind drifted for a bit…the love of a mother is a language the entire universe understands, and that sculpture captured it perfectly.

The park itself feels like an outdoor museum, but there’s an indoor gallery too, for those who prefer their art with a roof overhead. It’s also a venue for life’s celebrations, such as weddings, family gatherings, and more. And if you’re feeling inspired, they offer sculpting classes to help you “unleash your creativity.” I love that phrase. It suggests that creativity isn’t something you learn, it’s something you release. 

It was truly a breath of fresh air, a lesson in trees, art, and love. And for me, it was a place I didn’t expect to fall for, but did, completely.