The National Gallery of Zimbabwe announced it will stage a pavilion at the 2017 Venice Biennale. This will mark the sub-Saharan country’s fourth appearance in Venice.
In an interview with The Herald, Raphael Chikuwka, chief curator of the National Gallery of Zimbabwe, spoke to the local newspaper about the importance of showcasing Zimbabwean art on a world stage. Along with better gallery representation and international attention for artists, Chikukwa noted how Zimbabwe’s participation in Venice was significant for encouraging fellow African countries to take part and “tell their stories from their perspective.” About the impetus for participation in the past, he said, “The visibility of African countries at the Venice Biennale has always been very questionable. There was a need for us to make a statement.” The pavilion’s artists are yet to be announced.