Mattheus Nyaungwa was born on 1 July 1966 in Rusape, Makoni District, Manicaland Province, Zimbabwe, into a family that valued craftsmanship and artistic expression. His early exposure to art laid the foundation for a lifelong creative journey.

Nyaungwa began exploring art at Gurure Primary School in Makoni District in 1975. After an initial period of artistic activity, he spent nearly a decade developing his ideas independently, away from the formal art scene. He re-entered the field in 1985–1986 under the mentorship of the late sculptor Damian Manuhwa, focusing on hard stone Shona sculpture.

In 1988, he expanded into wood carving through private study, further broadening his artistic practice. By 1993–1994, Nyaungwa was experimenting with diverse materials including wire, plastics, and leather, creating mixed-media sculptural works that reflect both innovation and cultural depth.