The gallery has a rich history, dating back to its official opening on 4 December 1970, at the Old Market Building. After nearly a quarter century at that location, the gallery relocated to its current home, the iconic Douslin House, in 1994, where it continues to thrive and showcase its diverse collection. The Douslin house, a classic example of Edwardian colonial architecture, was built in 1900 and is now designated a protected building. The reconstruction and renovation of Douslin House took place over several years, with financial support from national, international, and local sources, commencing in 1991. The greatest thrust came from the Bulawayo community itself. Businessmen, the city council, artists, and ordinary citizens joined forces to raise the funds required to complete the project.
The building has had some name changes, it was first known as the Willougby’s Building from 1901 to 1956, then Asbestos House 1957 to 1979, then it changed to the Douslin House in 1980 up to present.
