National Gallery of Zimbabwe in

Bulawayo







Our Services

Exhibitions

Exhibitions in galleries serve several important purposes. They provide artists with exposure, allowing them to showcase their work and connect with their audience. For visitors, these exhibitions offer a chance to experience and learn about art and various cultures. Additionally, they can spark dialogue about societal issues and foster a greater appreciation for creativity and also foster a collective appreciation for the transformative power of art. 

Residency programme

The gallery offers an artist residency programme that allows local, regional, and international artists to have a studio and work at the gallery for durations ranging from one month to one year. This initiative actively promotes the exchange of ideas and encourages the sharing of emerging trends in the art world. Through this programme, the gallery has hosted artists from the UK, India, South Africa, the USA, and Germany.

Outreach and Education

Education is essential for any organisation that connects with individuals, and our gallery recognises this importance. We provide engaging educational tours and dynamic art classes designed for everyone—beginning with young children in kindergarten, to primary and secondary education, and extending to college students and adults. Join us in fostering creativity and knowledge in our community!

Our purpose is to promote, develop and safeguard Zimbabwe’s visual arts while fostering a vibrant art ecosystem.

ABOUT US

Our Story

Our story is one steeped in history. The gallery opened on 4 December 1970 and was initially known as the Bulawayo Art Gallery, and was located at the Old Market Building, beside the city hall. After nearly a quarter century at that location, the gallery relocated to its current home, the iconic Douslin House, in 1994. The National Gallery explores and expresses the essence of Zimbabwean identity through the visual arts. Ours is a journey that transcends physical and regional boundaries. From Bulawayo, Matabeleland South, Matabeleland North and the Midlands, where we are mandated to serve.