by Staff Writer
The National Gallery of Zimbabwe (NGZ) has stood as a beacon of cultural heritage and artistic expression in Zimbabwe for the past 67 years. Established by an Act of Parliament in 1952, it is currently governed by the National Gallery of Zimbabwe Act (Chapter 25:09) as well as the Public Entities Corporate Governance Act (Chapter 10:31). As a Ministry Department Agency (MDA), it is accountable to the Parliament of Zimbabwe, with its principal regulator being the Ministry of Youth, Sport, Arts, and Recreation. Since its establishment on July 16, 1957, the gallery has played a pivotal role in promoting visual arts within the country and beyond. As the institution celebrates its 67th birthday, we delve into its rich history and the significant milestones that have shaped the NGZ over the decades.
The original National Gallery of African Modern Art in Rhodesia, as it was then known, was the brainchild of British citizen Frank McEwen, whose role in spotlighting Shona Sculpture is well documented. Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother officially inaugurated the gallery on July 16, 1957, and Queen Elizabeth II attended the sixth Zimbabwe Heritage Exhibition there in October 1991. Frank McEwen, a British artist and museum curator, was appointed as the gallery's first director. McEwen's vision and dedication were instrumental in the establishment of the gallery. He aimed to create a space that not only showcased contemporary art but also celebrated the traditional art forms of Zimbabwe.
The gallery's initial collection comprised a mix of contemporary art and traditional African sculptures, setting the tone for its diverse and inclusive approach to art. Under McEwen's leadership, the gallery became a hub for artistic activity. He encouraged local artists to explore their creativity and provided them with the necessary resources and platforms to exhibit their work. McEwen served as the curator of the gallery from 1957 until his resignation in 1973. His successor was Roy Guthrie, the late founder of the Chapungu Sculpture Park in 1970. Previous leaders of the gallery included Chris Till and Doreen Sibanda, with Raphael Chikukwa as the current Chief Curator and Director.
The 1960s and 1970s were marked by significant growth for the NGZ. The gallery hosted numerous exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs aimed at fostering a deeper appreciation for the arts among the local population. It also began to acquire artworks from other African countries, thus expanding its collection and reinforcing its status as a premier art institution in Southern Africa.
The NGZ has faced several challenges throughout its history, particularly during the political and economic turmoil that Zimbabwe experienced in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Despite these difficulties, the gallery remained resilient, continuing to support and promote the arts. One of the key strategies that helped the NGZ navigate these challenging times was its focus on community engagement. The gallery implemented outreach programs that brought art to the people, particularly in underserved communities. These initiatives not only kept the gallery relevant but also reinforced its role as a vital cultural institution in Zimbabwe.
Today, the National Gallery of Zimbabwe continues to thrive as a dynamic center for visual arts. It regularly hosts exhibitions featuring both established and emerging artists, and its collection has grown to include over 6,000 works of art. The gallery also plays a crucial role in art education, offering various programs and workshops that cater to different age groups and skill levels. As the NGZ looks to the future, it remains committed to its founding principles of promoting artistic excellence and cultural diversity. With regional galleries in Mutare and Bulawayo and plans underway for a Victoria Falls branch, this national institution aims to expand its outreach programs and enhance its digital presence to reach a broader audience. Additionally, it seeks to strengthen its international partnerships, fostering cross-cultural exchanges that will enrich its collection and programming.
The National Gallery of Zimbabwe’s continuous contributions to the cultural landscape are a source of pride and inspiration for Zimbabwe and the world. As we celebrate the institutions
67th anniversary on July 16, 2024 we are reminded of the enduring power of art and its ability to unite, inspire, and transform Zimbabwe.
For current exhibitions and opening times visit www.nationalgallery.co.zw
Locations:
National Gallery of Zimbabwe in Harare: - 20 Julius Nyerere Way, Harare
Comments