Zimbabwe Announces Artists for the 61st Venice Biennale Celebrating Global Recognition of Local Talent

The Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Amb. Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe, has announced the five artists who will represent Zimbabwe at the 61st International Art Exhibition of La Biennale di Venezia, one of the world’s most prestigious art platforms.

The selected artists — Felix Shumba, Eva Raath, Gideon Gomo, Franklyn Dzingai, and Pardon Mapondera — will exhibit under the theme “Second Nature/Manyonga” at Zimbabwe’s 8th national pavilion. The selection highlights the depth and diversity of Zimbabwe’s contemporary art scene while positioning the country as an emerging voice in global visual arts.

Announcing the team, Minister Sanyatwe congratulated the artists, calling their inclusion “a proud moment for Zimbabwe’s creative sector and a testament to the growing international recognition of local talent.” He emphasised that government support for arts and culture remains central to national development goals. “The government remains committed to supporting the arts and cultural industries as part of its broader strategy to promote creative expression and increase Zimbabwe’s participation on global platforms,” he said.

The Venice Biennale, established in 1895, is widely regarded as the world’s most influential cultural event. It draws top artists, curators, and collectors from across continents to explore new ideas shaping art and society. Zimbabwe’s participation since 2011 has been instrumental in showcasing the country’s creative innovation and resilience despite limited resources in the local arts sector.

This year’s theme, “Second Nature/Manyonga,” explores the intersection of identity, environment, and transformation through visual storytelling. Each artist brings a unique perspective rooted in Zimbabwean culture and personal experience. Their collective presentation is expected to reflect both the challenges and creativity defining Zimbabwe’s contemporary artistic landscape.

Art institutions and cultural advocates have welcomed the announcement, noting that international exhibitions like the Venice Biennale offer invaluable exposure and networking opportunities for local artists. Zimbabwe’s continued presence at the Biennale is also seen as a statement of confidence in the power of art to foster dialogue, understanding, and global collaboration.

As preparations begin for the exhibition, set to open in April 2026, Zimbabwe’s pavilion will again stand as a beacon of artistic excellence from Southern Africa. The selection of Shumba, Raath, Gomo, Dzingai, and Mapondera underscores the nation’s growing influence in global contemporary art and reaffirms its commitment to nurturing talent capable of competing on the world stage.