The National Gallery of Zimbabwe invites artists from across the country, both emerging and established, to submit original artworks for a landmark exhibition celebrating the life, vision, and leadership of the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe—Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa.
This exhibition seeks to showcase diverse artistic perspectives reflecting the President’s image as a symbol of leadership, identity, and national pride. From classical portraiture to contemporary interpretations, paintings and drawings from all Zimbabwean artists are welcome.
Through these works, the exhibition will provide the public with a reflective space to engage with the many dimensions of leadership in Zimbabwe.
Eligibility
- Open to professional and emerging artists living and working in Zimbabwe.
- Accepted mediums: painting, drawing.
- Works must be original, created within the last two years, and not previously exhibited at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe.
Submission Guidelines
- Each artist may submit up to two works.
- Maximum size 150 cm x 120 cm for paintings and max 40kg for sculptures.
- All work should be ready for display.
- Submit via email high-resolution images (JPEG/PNG, 300dpi) accompanied by:
- Artist biography (max 200 words)
- Artist statement (max 300 words) explaining the work
- Title, medium, dimensions, and year of each work.
Please note that selected artists are responsible for framing and the transport of their works.
Key Dates
- Submission deadline for digital files: 29 August 2025 by 1500hrs.
- Delivery of artworks: 1 September 2025
- Exhibition opening: 15 September 2025
Selection Criteria
A curatorial panel, comprising representatives from the National Gallery of Zimbabwe and guest artists and critics, will evaluate submissions based on:
- Artistic excellence and originality.
- Alignment with the exhibition’s theme.
- Technical quality and feasibility for display.
How to Submit
Email all submissions to: exhibitions@nationalgallery.co.zw Use the subject line: “Portrait Exhibition Submission – [Your Name]”
Alternatively, you can submit the physical work at National Gallery of Zimbabwe locations across Zimbabwe:
- 20 Julius Nyerere Way, Harare
- 75 Joshua Nkomo Street and Takawira Avenue, Bulawayo
- 4224 Chinotimba Township, Victoria Falls.
