The National Gallery of Zimbabwe
Discover the rich artistic heritage of Zimbabwe at the National Gallery, where tradition meets contemporary creativity.
The National Gallery of Zimbabwe champions local talent, fostering creativity and continuous dialogue. We inspire broader appreciation of Zimbabwe's dynamic visual arts, showcasing the nation's rich artistic heritage and contemporary innovations.
Its stated mission is to "promote talent, develop creativity, and inspire a broader appreciation for Zimbabwe's vibrant visual arts".
History
For more than 66 years the Gallery has been a significant force in Zimbabwean art. Its origins trace back to the 1930s, though progress was interrupted by the Second World War, and it was formally established by the National Gallery Act of 1953.
Designed by architects Montgomerie and Oldfield, the building opened to the public on 16 July 1957, with the opening ceremony presided over by the Queen Mother and an inaugural exhibition of works borrowed from major international institutions.
Between 1969 and 1972 the Bulawayo community formed the Rhodesia Society of Artists and established its own gallery; a revised National Gallery Act in 1972 brought the Bulawayo location under a single board of trustees.
Zimbabwe's independence in 1980 redirected the Gallery toward international collaboration, and the institution expanded further with branches in Bulawayo and Mutare, becoming central to the growth of contemporary art in Zimbabwe while continuing to exhibit local and international work.
Leadership
Raphael Chikukwa has served as Executive Director since 2020. Rtd Justice Mafios Cheda chairs the Board of Trustees.
National Gallery School of Visual Arts and Design
The Gallery's school originates from the 1960s Workshop School founded by Frank McEwen, which nurtured early talents including the sculptor Henry Munyaradzi. It became the BAT Workshop Studio after independence, was renamed in 2011 when it introduced theoretical courses alongside Harare Polytechnic, and has been a HEXCO-recognised centre since 2016, now offering a Certificate of Achievement, a National Certificate in Applied Art and Design, and a National Diploma in Fine Art.