Zim Art Gallery to Host Art Criticism Workshop in ...

Zim Art Gallery to Host Art Criticism Workshop in September

Rutendo Mazhindu- Zim Now Reporter

Zimbabwe’s art criticism scene is set for a major boost as a new writing workshop brings together emerging and mid-career art critics for an intensive three-day programme to be held at the National Gallery of Zimbabwe from September 10 to 12, 2025.

The workshop, titled “Zimbabwe on My Mind,” is a collaborative effort between the ARAK Collection and the National Gallery.

It will be led by renowned South African art critic, curator, and educator Dr. Thembinkosi Goniwe.

The programme builds on a concept first introduced in Lusaka earlier this year, where participants explored the lives and meanings of artists, artworks, and archives through narrative and critical biography.

The Harare edition will deepen that approach by placing art writing within political, social, and historical contexts.

“This Zimbabwe edition will expand on that approach by introducing art criticism as an embedded, reflective, and context-responsive practice,” said Dr. Goniwe.

“We will be visiting artist studios and creative spaces in Harare, engaging directly with artworks and the people who make them.”

Participants will engage with local exhibitions, cultural landmarks, and selected artworks from the ARAK Collection.

The aim is to explore how artistic and historical materials can serve as entry points for critical and poetic writing.

“This is more than just a writing class,” said Goniwe. “It’s a space to think critically, write imaginatively, and connect with other voices who care about culture and context.”

He said the workshop would focus on practical writing exercises, group critiques, and guided visits, with participants expected to complete a working draft of a critical or narrative text by the end of the programme.

Organisers said applicants must submit a 500-word writing sample—either published or unpublished—accompanied by a short motivation letter and a brief CV or biography.

“Only those who are able to commit to the full three days of the workshop will be considered,” they said, adding that the deadline for applications is August 10.

“This initiative comes at a crucial time in Zimbabwe’s arts sector, when more locally grounded, analytical, and imaginative voices are needed to interpret, document, and interrogate the country’s cultural production.”