Ngara Galleries Opens in the Cayman Islands: A Celebration of Shona Art

Ngara Galleries, a contemporary Shona art gallery, made history with its official opening last Saturday in the Cayman Islands. The gallery, located in Grand Cayman, launched with an inaugural exhibition and reception, marking a significant milestone for both the region and Zimbabwean art.

As the first gallery of its kind in the Cayman Islands, Ngara Galleries offers a rare opportunity to showcase the brilliance of Zimbabwean Shona sculptures to a global audience. The gallery is designed to captivate both first-generation collectors and art enthusiasts, presenting the extraordinary talents of Shona artists whose work reflects the rich cultural heritage of Zimbabwe.

Founded in 2024 by Zimbabwean entrepreneur and car racer Laureen Adam, Ngara Galleries is more than just an exhibition space—it serves as a gateway to the Zimbabwean experience. The gallery invites visitors to embark on a journey through time, where modern artistic expressions and historical stories converge in breathtaking sculptures.

In her remarks, Laureen expressed her excitement about the project, emphasizing her desire to bring Zimbabwean art to the world, particularly to this region of the globe. “I chose to open Ngara Galleries here in the Cayman Islands to promote Zimbabwean art, especially to people who have a deep appreciation for intricate, unique, and beautiful art,” Laureen said. “This gallery invites art lovers to immerse themselves in energizing colors, dynamic movements, evocative textures, and timeless stories that transcend language through visual storytelling.”

Laureen also spoke passionately about the significance of the gallery’s mission. She hopes to inspire emotional connections and ignite imaginations, fostering a deeper understanding of the role Shona art plays in bridging societies. “Our aim is to create a future where Shona art becomes a catalyst for meaningful conversations,” she said. “Through our visually stimulating and awe-inspiring collections, we want to educate and connect people from all walks of life.”

The gallery features works by some of Zimbabwe’s most celebrated artists, including Josian Manzi, Edward Chiwawa, Fanizani Akuda, Sylvester Mubayi, and Dialo, who recently won an award at the prestigious Venice Biennale. Visitors can also enjoy live demonstrations by Macloud Chiwawa, the son of Edward Chiwawa, offering a rare insight into the process of stone carving and the intricate craftsmanship of Shona sculptors.

Named after Laureen’s Shona totem, “Ngara,” the gallery embodies a deep cultural connection to Zimbabwe’s heritage. The name, which translates to “in-laws of the king,” carries profound historical significance, drawing inspiration from the Shona kingdom in medieval Great Zimbabwe. It reflects the legacy of the Zimbabwe Birds, which were discovered by colonialists and are symbols of the country’s rich cultural history.

Ngara Galleries showcases sculptures made from Zimbabwe’s precious stones, created using traditional techniques passed down through generations. As such, the gallery stands as a creative incubator, celebrating the artistry and craftsmanship of Shona sculptors while promoting the preservation of their legacy.

Laureen emphasized the importance of honoring Zimbabwean artistry in a world where technology often dominates. “Technology cannot sculpt stones. It is our responsibility to bring the creations of true artists into the glory they deserve,” she said.

Through its dedication to Shona art, Ngara Galleries hopes to become a significant cultural hub in the Cayman Islands and beyond, where art lovers can experience the timeless beauty of Zimbabwean craftsmanship and engage in important conversations about art, culture, and society.