Liberty Dube and Lloyd Makonya
IN a shocking development, the National Gallery of Zimbabwe will close its doors in Mutare on December 31 — after more than 25 years of serving as a vital cultural hub in the eastern region.
The closure marks the end of an era for local creatives who depended on the gallery to showcase their work and connect with the community.
Last Friday, the gallery hosted its final exhibition, featuring Harare-based artist, Paidamoyo Sajeni’s “Black Narratives” exhibition, themed: “The Protagonist.” This collection challenged the authenticity of various social and political constructs, and questioned whether they support local communities or undermine their freedoms.
Following this event, artists have been asked to retrieve their remaining works by November 15, signalling the official winding down of the institution.
For many in the arts community, the gallery was more than just a place to exhibit art – it was a beacon of artistic expression, education, and cultural exchange.
Its closure raises concern about the future of the arts in Mutare, already hampered by limited infrastructure and support.
The impact of the gallery’s closure is expected to ripple through the local creative industry.
For years, it played pivotal role in nurturing talent, hosting workshops, and providing platform for artists to develop and showcase their works.
The shutdown also underscores broader challenges in Zimbabwe’s creative sector, including budgetary constraints and operational difficulties.
In a message to the Friends of the Gallery WhatsApp group, NGZ Mutare regional director, Elizabeth Muusha, cited the constraints reasons for the closure.
She noted the gallery struggled to sustain itself, particularly with monthly rentals of US$800, coupled with other operational costs.
As 2024 comes to a close, artists in Mutare are left to reflect on the future of their craft in a city that has lost a crucial cultural landmark.
Former NGZ board member and prominent local businessman, Job Torindoh lamented the closure.
“Without our own gallery, we, and in particular the artists, will be poorer in Manicaland. It is disheartening that this is happening at a time when President Mnangagwa is emphasising, ‘No one, and no place should be left behind,” he said.
With the gallery’s imminent closure, its absence will undoubtedly be felt for years to come, marking a potential turning point in the evolution of Mutare’s creative industry.
Said one local heartbroken visual artist who requested anonymity: “This gallery was one of the few places where we could display our art and interact with buyers, critics, and fellow artists. Its closure feels like a huge loss, and I don’t know where we will go from here.”
The gallery was housed at the Kopje House which is one of the historic buildings and a national monument found in Mutare.
The Kopje House Complex was started and completed in 1897.
The place holds a critical historical and cultural significance, having played a critical role in championing arts and supporting artistes, both performing and visual, to showcase their talents and display their work.
The place has numerous permanent exhibits which are well displayed in the gallery and surrounding grounds.
The place has been a cultural and tourism hub and has hosted visual and performing artists as well as culture enthusiasts from across the globe.
The place also consisted of a gallery shop which is bright and cheerful with cushions, batiks, basket ware, beaded animals, jewellery and carvings attractively displayed.
Its closure is indeed a blow to local creatives, visitors, tourists and learners.
