Dr. Tamaz Shotashvili was born in Tbilisi in 1957. During his school studies, he showed an interest in drawing, particularly focusing on recreating existing artworks, as well as cutting and carving on clay plates.
While studying at the medical institute, he became fascinated by bone cutting, which led to the creation of his first work. One day, while his mother was cooking dinner, a small piece of bone caught his attention and he refined it into a man’s face with the help of a surgical lancet.
This marked the beginning of his journey into bone carving. Initially, the lancet was his only tool, but over time, he added dental drills, small motors, and magnifying glass, making the work easier and dynamic for him.
He found bone carving so captivating that he often spent hours at his desk creating something new. After some time, as series of works were born, the exhibition in Summer of 2018 was held in the Museum of the History of Georgian Medicine, garnering significant interest from friends, various groups of professionals, individuals, TV and printed media.
Since 2012, cycling trips have become new
passion for him, with significant contributions from his friends. Together, they began cycling trips, starting with journeys around Tbilisi, which eventually expanded to include trips outside the city.
The inspiration themes of the works became even more diverse, the performance techniques were advanced. The “Ladies’ Gallery” was extended with new works, as well as the “Fauna” section, “Lovers” theme together with the “Eastern Theme” were enriched.
In addition to bone, deer antler and shell were added as working materials.
His passion for bone carving continues to occupy a leading place in his life alongside everyday medical practice.
Currently, he continues to work on creating figures of different genres and plans to present his evolving collection to the public through an upcoming exhibition and this online gallery.
