Summer has arrived, and Lusaka's art scene is thriving. Local artists are producing striking works that reflect Zambian identity. Whether you want to discover the latest creations, appreciate historical collections, or relax in an inspiring environment, these three galleries offer memorable experiences.
Local galleries are showcasing Zambian talent and preserving cultural stories by keeping them front and centre. If you’re looking for something different to do this summer, these three galleries deliver.
The Chena Art Gallery
The Chena Art Gallery showcases all kinds of art, giving local artists a place to display their work. Located in central Lusaka, Chena has become more than just a gallery—it's a cultural hub where new and established artists meet.
What sets Chena apart is its open doors for all. You don’t need to be an art connoisseur to enjoy what they offer. Chena regularly changes its exhibitions, exhibiting traditional paintings as well as modern fittings. To top it all off, artists usually chat with visitors.
If galleries feel intimidating, Chena is the ideal starting point. The Chena Art House functions both as an event venue and a gallery, so you might watch an artist at work or attend an impromptu opening. Chena prioritises community, offering workshops, artist talks, and regularly updated social media on new events.
Lusaka Contemporary Art Centre
Located in Chamba Valley, theLusaka Contemporary Art Centre (LuCAC) is artist Victor Mutelekesha's foundation advancing contemporary Zambian arts. The centre hosts a gallery, library, and artist residency. Since opening in 2023, LuCAC has become Zambia's first contemporary art hub, offering something unique in the region.
Its location lets you escape the city buzz. It's peaceful, giving you space to look at art without distractions and take your time thinking about what you're seeing. The artist residency brings international artists from across Africa and beyond. You might see work-in-progress pieces or chat with visiting artists.
What makes LuCAC different is that they study art, not just display it. They document Zambian contemporary art and can tell you the stories behind the work. You'll leave understanding art history, not just having seen pretty pictures.
Lechwe Trust Gallery
For depth and historical art context, visit Lechwe Trust. This charitable trust was formed in 1986 to support Zambian visual arts through scholarships and an art collection.
The Lechwe Trust Art Gallery has over 420 artworks—paintings, prints, ceramics, and sculptures. Started in 1987 by Cynthia Zukas, Bente Lorenz, and Henry Tayali, it spans decades of Zambian artistic development. The collection includes woodcuts, ceramics, sculptures, and drawings that tell Zambia's art story and showcase diverse heritage.
Each piece shows different periods of Zambian art, helping you understand how art reflects social and cultural changes. Lechwe supports emerging artists through scholarships, so the collection keeps growing. It's a living archive that bridges art history with today's work.
Planning Your Gallery Summer Adventure
These three galleries each show you something different about Zambian art. Chena makes art approachable. LuCAC showcases contemporary work from across Africa. Lechwe dives into art history.
Visit all three and see how our artists tell Zambian stories in fresh ways. Summer's perfect for gallery hopping to escape the heat and discover something new. Don't worry if you're not an art expert. You might surprise yourself with what catches your eye. Grab a friend and start this weekend.
