A Journey Through Lusaka’s Vibrant Art Scene

A Journey Through Lusaka’s Vibrant Art Scene

Discovering Zambia’s Creativity, One Brushstroke at a Time

Lusaka isn’t just Zambia’s political capital—it’s a rising cultural powerhouse where creativity spills out of studios, hangs on gallery walls, and even appears on sidewalks. In recent years, the city has seen a quiet revolution in visual art. Once overlooked, Lusaka’s art scene is now buzzing with exhibitions, installations, and homegrown talent that speak boldly to identity, memory, and change.

Whether you’re an art lover, collector, or curious explorer, this journey through Lusaka’s art spaces will leave you inspired, challenged, and connected to the city’s evolving spirit.

1. 37d Gallery – Contemporary Art Meets Conservation

Tucked away in a quiet corner of Kabulonga, 37d Gallery is one of Lusaka’s premier art spaces. This gallery is known for its sharp curatorial voice and support for both established and emerging Zambian artists. Inside, you’ll find works ranging from intricate beadwork and sculpture to large-scale paintings exploring themes like decolonisation, ecology, and personal history.

What sets 37d apart is its thoughtful approach—art is never just decorative here; it’s a dialogue. Many of their exhibitions tackle social justice, climate change, and identity, making each visit not only beautiful but meaningful.

Don’t Miss: The on-site artisan shop and café—perfect for picking up handmade prints or having a reflective cup of coffee post-gallery stroll.

2. Modzi Arts – A Home for Experimental Expression

If 37d is where fine art hangs, Modzi Arts is where it breathes. This grassroots space serves as a creative lab for experimental artists, activists, and thinkers. It’s less a gallery and more a cultural community—hosting installations, performance art, film screenings, and workshops.

Here, young artists are encouraged to explore, critique, and push boundaries. Expect graffiti walls, spoken word nights, and powerful art that reflects everyday urban life.

Why Visit: To see what’s next in Zambian art and meet the rising stars redefining creativity beyond the canvas.

3. Lechwe Trust Gallery – Preserving Zambian Artistic Legacy

Founded to support Zambian artists and promote arts education, the Lechwe Trust Gallery is a quiet gem that bridges past and present. The gallery houses an impressive collection of Zambian masters—names like Henry Tayali, Cynthia Zukas, and David Chuchu—alongside contemporary painters, sculptors, and photographers.

If you’re looking to understand how Zambian art has evolved over the decades, this is the place. Their exhibitions often trace socio-political shifts and cultural transitions, giving visitors a fuller sense of the country’s creative heritage.

Good to Know: The Trust also supports artist scholarships and workshops—keeping art accessible and alive for future generations.

4. Public Art – Creativity in the Streets

Not all of Lusaka’s art hangs on walls. Walk through the city you’ll spot hand-painted shop signs, political murals, and traditional motifs reimagined on walls and fences. These pieces often go unnoticed but tell powerful stories about community, protest, and pride.

Artists like Yande Banda and collectives like Street Culture Zambia have been involved in public art projects that merge civic awareness with visual storytelling—painting Lusaka’s social fabric one wall at a time.

Pro Tip: Join a local art walk (organized by Modzi Arts or art-focused tourism groups) to get context behind these urban masterpieces.

5. Everyday Lusaka Gallery- Art for all

Everyday Lusaka Gallery is a vibrant art space located in the heart of Lusaka, Zambia, within the historic E.W Tarry Building. Founded by Sana Ginwalla in 2018, this gallery showcases the city's untold stories through photography and other forms of creative expression. One of its missions is to elevate the experience of art for all, contribute to the ecosystem, and ensure artists can earn from their work.

What to Expect

Artistic Expression: The gallery creates room for various forms of creative expression, broadening the audience and enriching the cultural fabric of the city.

Community Engagement: By hosting exhibitions, workshops, and collaborations, Everyday Lusaka Gallery fosters connections among artists, art enthusiasts, and the local community.

Accessibility: With its location in the central business district, the gallery aims to make art accessible to everyone, regardless of their background.

6. Art Pop-Ups and Markets – Where Creativity Meets Community

Beyond galleries, Lusaka’s creative spirit thrives at monthly art fairs and design markets. Events like the Zambia Art & Design Show or Lusaka Art Market that showcase everything from paintings to prints, ceramics, textiles, and jewelry.

These markets are vibrant, welcoming spaces where art lovers and casual shoppers alike can discover talent and take home original work at accessible prices.

Hot Tip: Follow these events on Instagram—they often feature live painting, music, and food, turning each market into a mini cultural festival.

The Future of Art in Lusaka

Zambia’s art scene is growing not just in scale, but in self-confidence. Artists are becoming curators of their own stories—challenging narratives, owning their roots, and building platforms outside of institutional spaces. There’s a hunger for expression, and Lusaka is providing the canvas.

At the intersection of heritage, activism, and innovation, Lusaka’s art scene is proof that creativity isn’t a luxury—it’s a language. One that speaks of past struggles, present realities, and bold futures.

Plan Your Art Day in Lusaka: A Creative Itinerary

• Start at 37d Gallery in Kabulonga
  
  

• Grab coffee and browse the artisan shop
  
  

• Head to Modzi Arts for a casual lunch and open studio visit
  
  

• Catch a workshop or walk through their evolving exhibition space
  
  

• Drop by Lechwe Trust Gallery for heritage art appreciation
  
  

• Take a guided walk through downtown to explore public murals
  
  

• Buy a print, sip a local brew, and toast to Zambia’s creative pulse
  
  

See the City, Through Its Artists

To walk through Lusaka’s art scene is to witness the heartbeat of a city in motion. It’s gritty, thoughtful, unfiltered, and fiercely Zambian. Whether you’re viewing a painting or reading graffiti, what you’re really seeing is the soul of Lusaka—raw, reflective, and beautifully alive.

So grab your curiosity and start your journey—there’s always a new story waiting on the next canvas.

#LusakaArt #ZambianCreatives #UrbanCulture