Enrolment Open for 2025 National Gallery of Zimbabwe School of Visual Arts
The National Gallery of Zimbabwe (NGZ) School of Visual Arts is now accepting applications for the 2025 academic year. Classes are set to commence on February 20, following the busy festive season.
Raphael Chikukwa, NGZ’s executive director, confirmed the new dates and shared his excitement about the growing interest in Zimbabwean art, both locally and internationally. “The demand for Zimbabwean art is increasing, and we’re proud of the talent emerging from our institution,” he said.
Chikukwa encouraged young people to take art seriously, highlighting its transformative power. “Art is a calling that needs to be shaped,” he stated, assuring prospective students that the programme is open to those aged 18 and above, with no specific requirement for five Ordinary Level subjects. This is a welcoming approach aimed at aspiring artists who might not meet all academic qualifications but have a passion for visual arts.
The NGZ School of Visual Arts, which has a rich history dating back to the 1960s, continues to nurture talent and has produced some of Zimbabwe’s most prominent artists, including Sylvester Mubayi and Joseph Ndandarika. Other celebrated alumni include Tapfumo Gutsa, Portia Zvavahera, and rising stars such as Troy Makaza, Mercy Moyo, and Kresia Mkwazhi.
The two-year programme offers an intensive curriculum where students will learn professional drawing techniques and how to market their work, preparing them for both local and international art markets. The programme is particularly beneficial for students from outside Harare, offering them the chance to gain skills and connect with peers across Zimbabwe.
In 2025, the NGZ School of Visual Arts will expand its reach with the opening of new branches in Victoria Falls and Bulawayo, providing access to art education in these regions. This move aligns with Chikukwa’s vision of using art to address social issues, such as drug abuse and youth idleness, particularly in marginalized communities.
Chikukwa expressed his satisfaction with the increasing number of young learners visiting NGZ galleries for photography workshops. “Art education fosters community engagement, and it’s a tool for tackling important societal challenges,” he added.
The NGZ School of Visual Arts also continues to accept international students, further strengthening its reputation as a global hub for visual art education. “We are excited by the interest we are receiving from international applicants, and we look forward to welcoming students from across the world,” Chikukwa said.
The NGZ has been a significant player in showcasing Zimbabwe’s art globally, especially with its involvement in the 60th International Exhibition of Biennale in Italy. The success of former students at this prestigious event has drawn attention to the growing prominence of Zimbabwean art.
For aspiring visual artists, the NGZ School of Visual Arts offers an unmatched opportunity to learn, grow, and make a mark in the world of contemporary art. The 2025 enrolment period is underway, and those interested should apply soon to be part of this exciting new chapter for Zimbabwe’s art scene.
