An international commission takes shape in an Ashburton studio.
Thabo Makgoba sculpture in clay
In the heart of South Devon, an ancient art is taking shape. Acclaimed portrait sculptor and Maker Member of MAKE Southwest, Luke Shepherd has fashioned a larger-than-life bronze bust of Thabo Makgoba in his Ashburton studio.
Sittings with the Archbishop took place in Lambeth Palace, London. Shepherd, known internationally for his expressive and realistic portrait commissions, has previously created striking bronzes of Floella Benjamin for Exeter University, as well as Billy Connolly and Christopher Biggins for Theatre Royal Plymouth.
The new commission coincides with a significant moment in Anglican history, with the recent inauguration of Sarah Mullally, the first female archbishop, and reflects the enduring relationship between the Anglican Church in the UK and South Africa. Archbishop Makgoba visited the UK as an honoured guest and the sittings took place in Lambeth Palace during this period.
The finished bronze will be cast in the UK in London before being unveiled in Cape Town Cathedral and finally installed in Makgoba’s home village, marking both his retirement and his legacy of leadership.
Notably, the Archbishop requested that the work be celebratory rather than pious, intended as a gift to his community rather than a personal monument.
“It’s a delight to be involved in this commission and such an honour to be invited to Cape Town. I’m always in awe where this work leads!”
Shepherd was selected for the commission following his earlier involvement mentoring a sculptor working on a portrait of Desmond Tutu - a sculpture that resonated with Makgoba’s vision for the piece.
“Every detail matters - the eyes, the posture, the expression,” Shepherd says. “This bust will reflect not just likeness but the spirit and leadership of Archbishop Makgoba.”
Beyond the international significance, the story remains rooted in Devon. Shepherd runs portrait sculpture courses locally, including four-day intensives in Art House, South Brent. He is known for sharing the full process - from clay modelling through to bronze casting - with students and visitors coming both locally and from overseas.
Thabo Makgoba with artist Luke Shepherd at Lambeth Palace
A Member of MAKE Southwest, an Academician of the South West Academy and Chair of the South West Sculptors Association, Shepherd continues to base his practice in Ashburton, which he describes as “a really great community town” for creative work.
“It’s a privilege to represent Devon with this international commission and to connect communities across continents,” he adds.
Luke has been invited to Cape Town to present the bronze at Makgoba’s final retirement service in 2027.
A bronze resin cast of the sculpture was selected for the MAKE Southwest exhibition, Summer Show 2026: New approaches by our Maker Members. It was received well with many commenting on the joy of expression and the way the eyes convey great warmth yet are modelled so loosely.
Luke Shepherd with clay of Thabo Makgoba
Luke Shepherd
A portrait sculpture is the most remarkable of art forms as it brings the person’s presence to the room. Both for celebration of a life well lived and as an enduring artwork that captures fond memories.
Find out more about Luke and his work HERE.
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