IN the tranquil hills of Domboshava, where ancient caves whisper stories of civilisation, a new creative beacon is rising.
Globally-acclaimed visual artist Keith Zenda is set to open a bold new chapter in Zimbabwe’s contemporary art landscape.
The Artgal ZimCenter promises mind-blowing exhibitions, including memorable encounters, mentorship and meaning.
On March 7, Domboshava will become the epicentre of a transformative artistic vision.
Zenda, the owner of the Artgal ZimCenter in Domboshava, has announced that that will be the date when the Artgal ZimCenter will be officially opened.
In a telephone conversation with NewsDay Life & Style, Zenda said: “Artgal is proud to announce the opening of Artgal ZimCenter in Domboshava, Harare on Saturday March 7.
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“It is the first franchise gallery of Artgal, owned and run by renowned Zimbabwean artist Keith Zenda.
“The opening marks a significant new chapter for Artgal, expanding its model through artist-led spaces deeply connected to place, mentorship and creative exchange.”
Zenda is widely recognised for his distinctive artistic language and for developing “Zendaism”, a philosophy that views art not as decoration, but as presence, encounter and recognition.
His works are celebrated for their direct gazes, quiet intensity and philosophical grounding.
It is in this spirit that Artgal ZimCenter in Domboshava invites viewers to a moment of shared awareness rather than passive observation.
“At the core of Zendaism lies the belief that art is a form of seeing and being seen, rooted in dignity, human connection and African ways of knowing,” he said.
As founder and director of Artgal ZimCenter, Zenda is devoted to mentorship.
The centre actively supports and mentors a new generation of exceptional emerging artists, both female and male and provides guidance, visibility and a professional platform for their development.
The initiative positions the gallery as both incubator and launchpad, nurturing voices that will shape Zimbabwe’s contemporary art future.
“Artgal ZimCenter represents a new gallery concept: a contemporary, flexible space that goes beyond exhibition.
“In addition to showcasing artworks, the centre offers artist residencies, educational programmes, and hands-on painting experiences.
“Schools, young people and visitors are invited not only to view art, but also to learn about painting and take part in the creative process themselves, fostering confidence, curiosity and artistic literacy.”
Intentionally located in Domboshava at Mverechena growth point, which is close to the ancient caves, a site of profound cultural, spiritual and historical significance, the centre is grounded in a landscape long associated with reflection, ritual and storytelling.
The proximity reinforces a powerful dialogue between contemporary artistic practice and Zimbabwe’s deep cultural roots, creating a living bridge between past and present.
The grand opening will be a private, invitation-only event, welcoming guests from the artistic, cultural and collecting communities.
The occasion celebrates not only a new physical space, but a shared vision that art is a living practice embedded in place, learning and human connection.
Artgal ZimCenter signals the beginning of a broader vision for Artgal, one where artist-led franchise galleries become cultural anchors, shaping meaningful artistic ecosystems locally while remaining connected to a global network.