First Floor Gallery is Zimbabwe’s leading contemporary art space with a programme, which incorporates artist development and educational and socially engaged cultural initiatives alongside gallery practice. Since opening in 2009 as an experimental artist-run initiative, First Floor Gallery Harare has launched numerous international careers of Zimbabwean artists and beyond.
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First Floor Gallery Harare

4.3
·68 reviews·Harare, Zimbabwe

Harare's premier hub for contemporary Zimbabwean art, showcasing diverse local talent and fostering a vibrant community.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more intimate viewing

CrowdLow
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First Floor Gallery is Zimbabwe’s leading contemporary art space with a programme, which incorporates artist development and educational and socially engaged cultural initiatives alongside gallery practice. Since opening in 2009 as an experimental artist-run initiative, First Floor Gallery Harare has launched numerous international careers of Zimbabwean artists and beyond.

First Floor Gallery Harare

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more intimate viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Harare's premier hub for contemporary Zimbabwean art, showcasing diverse local talent and fostering a vibrant community.

4.3
(68 reviews)

"A wonderful support system for local artists and a must visit for anyone passionate about African artists."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Exhibition Schedule

Always check their latest exhibitions before visiting to catch new and exciting art.

☕ Relax on the Rooftop

Enjoy the city views and a moment of calm on the rooftop after exploring the galleries.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Contemporary Zimbabwean Art

Contemporary Zimbabwean Art

Main Gallery Space

Immerse yourself in cutting-edge works by talented local artists, showcasing diverse perspectives and styles.

Rooftop Views

Rooftop Views

Rooftop Terrace

Enjoy panoramic city views, including Mbuya Nehanda's statue, and a relaxing ambiance after your art exploration.

Exhibition Openings

Exhibition Openings

Gallery Main Space

Experience the buzz of new art launches, often accompanied by music and a vibrant community atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

Weekdays offer a more serene atmosphere, allowing you to fully appreciate the art without crowds. Weekends, especially during exhibition openings, can get lively but also quite busy. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more intimate viewing.

Supporting Local Artists

First Floor Gallery Harare is a vital hub for contemporary Zimbabwean artists. Your visit directly supports their creative endeavors and contributes to the vibrant local art scene. Many pieces are available for purchase, offering a unique souvenir.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Exhibition opening evenings
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, community
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We recently had visitors from @lomagundi_college_schools who came to have a look at Amanda Shingirai Mushate and Tashinga Majiri "Rudo Rwunouya Nemabasa" show. Link to online viewing room in our bio. #amandashingiraimushate #tashingamajiri #painting #firstfloorgalleryharare #Harare #contemporaryafricanart
firstfloorgalleryharare
179 likes • 1.9K views

🎯 Check Exhibition Schedule

Always check their latest exhibitions before visiting to catch new and exciting art. Instagram

☕ Relax on the Rooftop

Enjoy the city views and a moment of calm on the rooftop after exploring the galleries. Reddit

“The job of being someone else is being done by someone else,” shares Valerie Kabov (@valeriekabov), Co-Founder and Director of First Floor Gallery Harare (@firstfloorgalleryharare). Here is her hot tip for working in the art world. #ArtSchoolAfrica #ASA #ArtTip
artschoolafrica
289 likes • 4.8K views
It’s one thing to experience art, but it’s a special thing to experience art with your loved one❤️ #love #mom #ffgharare #simonback #firstfloorgalleryharare
graynyahangare
52 likes • 653 views

🎶 Catch Live Events

Look out for special events like balcony concerts or music performances that add to the experience. Instagram

🖼️ Support Local Artists

Consider purchasing artwork to directly support Zimbabwean creatives. Instagram

Shout out to trustsamende_ , @the_serpant_official, @bagmanshows and these incredible dancers for spicing up the vibe ✨️. #firstfloorgalleryharare #music #guitar #dance
majiritashie
37 likes • 329 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Exhibition Schedule

Always check their latest exhibitions before visiting to catch new and exciting art. Instagram

☕ Relax on the Rooftop

Enjoy the city views and a moment of calm on the rooftop after exploring the galleries. Reddit

🎶 Catch Live Events

Look out for special events like balcony concerts or music performances that add to the experience. Instagram

🖼️ Support Local Artists

Consider purchasing artwork to directly support Zimbabwean creatives. Instagram

📸 Picture Perfect Views

The rooftop offers great photo opportunities of the city skyline. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(68 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise First Floor Gallery Harare for its vibrant collection of contemporary Zimbabwean art and its role in supporting local artists. The rooftop offers pleasant city views and a relaxing atmosphere, though the gallery space can feel small during busy periods. It's considered a must-visit for art lovers.

"It’s pretty quiet during the week,beautiful art"

pamela marimbe

"My favorite Art Gallery in the country!❤️ I try to attend every exhibition opening. The room space is okay if you want to visit on a weekday or generally on a day that is not so busy but on the days when people trickle in in their numbers it is very small. Good things every artwork will be well placed giving space for others to view others exhibitions. The rooftop soace allows you to beautifully view mbuya nehanda’s statue and look over the Samora Machel and Julius Nyerere intersection. The rooftop is a pleasant place to relax at after viewing the beautiful art. I have made good friends at this rooftop hence im so fond of it."

Tanaka Mudzimiri

"Has good views and picture perfect"

Dumisani C Moyo

What People Like

Support for local artists
Quality contemporary art
Rooftop city views

What People Dislike

Gallery space can be small

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The gallery is located in Harare, Zimbabwe. While specific public transport details can vary, it's often accessible by local taxis or ride-sharing services. Many visitors arrive via private transport or as part of tours. Reddit

Information on dedicated parking can be limited. It's advisable to inquire locally or use nearby public parking facilities if available. Reddit

Yes, many city tours in Harare include stops at prominent cultural sites like the First Floor Gallery, offering a convenient way to visit. Reddit

From Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport (HRE), you can arrange a taxi or pre-booked shuttle service to reach the gallery in Harare. Reddit

While the main gallery space is generally accessible, it's recommended to contact the gallery directly to confirm specific accessibility features for the rooftop or any other areas. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the gallery is typically free, especially for viewing current exhibitions. However, special events or ticketed exhibitions may have associated costs. Instagram

Opening hours can vary depending on the day and current exhibitions. It's best to check their official social media or website for the most up-to-date information. Instagram

Yes, First Floor Gallery Harare supports local artists, and many artworks displayed are available for purchase. Inquiries can be made at the gallery. Instagram

While not always formally advertised, the gallery staff, including curators like Marcus Gora, are often knowledgeable and can provide insights into the artworks. Instagram

The rooftop area is generally accessible to visitors of the gallery and does not typically have a separate admission fee. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is usually permitted, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on certain artworks or during special events. Instagram

The rooftop offers excellent panoramic views of Harare, making it a popular spot for photography. Reddit

Flash photography is generally discouraged in art galleries to protect the artworks from potential damage. Please refrain from using flash. Instagram

Weekday afternoons offer a less crowded environment, allowing for better composition and fewer distractions in your photos. Reddit

Many of the contemporary pieces are visually striking. Grace Nyahangare's 'Hatikanganwe asi tinopora' has been noted for its impact. Instagram

🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience

The gallery showcases contemporary Zimbabwean art, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed media, often focusing on local narratives and African artists. Instagram+1

The gallery space is described as 'okay' and can feel small when busy, but artworks are well-placed for viewing. Reddit

It's a vibrant space that supports local artists, often hosting lively exhibition openings with music and community engagement. InstagramReddit

While not explicitly mentioned, the gallery is part of the Hyatt Regency Harare, which may offer amenities. Inquiries about specific facilities are recommended. Instagram

A visit can range from an hour to a few hours, depending on your interest in the art and whether you plan to relax on the rooftop or attend an event. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

First Floor Gallery Harare can be a stimulating outing for families, offering a chance for children to engage with visual arts in a supportive environment. While the art itself might be contemporary and thought-provoking, the gallery's atmosphere is generally welcoming. Instagram Consider visiting on a weekday afternoon when it's less crowded, allowing children more space to observe the artworks without feeling overwhelmed. Reddit

Encourage your children to discuss what they see and feel about the art. The rooftop area also provides a safe space for them to move around and enjoy the city views after exploring the exhibitions. Reddit It's a great opportunity to introduce young minds to the local art scene and foster creativity. Remember to check the current exhibition themes to gauge their suitability for younger audiences.

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors

For those passionate about contemporary African art, First Floor Gallery Harare is a must-visit destination. The gallery is renowned for showcasing emerging and established Zimbabwean artists, offering a curated selection of high-quality works. Instagram+1 You'll find a diverse range of mediums and styles, reflecting the vibrant and evolving art landscape of the region. Many visitors highlight the gallery as a 'wonderful support system for local artists', making it an ideal place to discover and potentially acquire unique pieces. Reddit

Attending exhibition openings is highly recommended for collectors, as these events provide an opportunity to meet artists, engage with curators like Marcus Gora, and experience the buzz surrounding new releases. Instagram The gallery's commitment to promoting artists means you're likely to encounter fresh talent and significant works. Don't miss the chance to explore the rooftop for a different perspective and a moment to reflect on the art you've experienced. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Role of First Floor Gallery Harare in the Art Scene

First Floor Gallery Harare is more than just an exhibition space; it's a crucial platform for contemporary Zimbabwean artists and a hub for the African art scene. Co-founded and directed by Valerie Kabov, the gallery is dedicated to promoting and supporting local talent, offering them a space to showcase their work and connect with a wider audience. Instagram They actively participate in collaborations and support programs, such as the Rackless Abutu program, which includes mentorship for gallery management. Instagram

The gallery's commitment extends to fostering a community around art. They frequently host exhibition openings that are not just about viewing art but also about experiencing it in a lively atmosphere, often featuring music and performances. Instagram This approach makes the gallery a dynamic cultural destination, encouraging engagement and dialogue. Their support for artists like Amanda Shingirai Mushate and Tashinga Majiri, as well as their association with Southern Guild for exhibitions by artists like Wycliffe Mundopa, highlights their significant role in the regional art landscape. Instagram+1

Visitors often praise the gallery for its curator and artwork, noting it as a 'wonderful support system for local artists.' Reddit The intimate yet impactful nature of the space, combined with the quality of the art, makes it a must-visit for anyone passionate about African artists and contemporary art. The gallery's ability to create memorable experiences, from viewing powerful art to enjoying rooftop vistas, solidifies its importance in Harare's cultural fabric.

Experiencing the Rooftop Views and Ambiance

The rooftop space at First Floor Gallery Harare offers a unique dual experience: a place for quiet reflection after engaging with art and a vantage point for enjoying the city. Visitors often describe it as a 'pleasant place to relax at' and a spot where they've 'made good friends.' Reddit The views from the rooftop are particularly noteworthy, providing a beautiful perspective of landmarks like Mbuya Nehanda's statue and the intersection of Samora Machel and Julius Nyerere avenues. Reddit

This elevated area transforms the gallery visit into a more holistic experience. It's a space where one can unwind, take in the urban landscape, and perhaps even enjoy a drink or a conversation. The combination of art appreciation indoors and scenic relaxation outdoors makes the gallery a well-rounded destination. It's also highlighted as a 'picture perfect' spot, suggesting its appeal for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the essence of Harare. Reddit

While the main focus is on the art within, the rooftop serves as an essential extension of the gallery's offering. It provides a different kind of sensory engagement, complementing the visual stimulation of the exhibitions with a broader, more expansive view of the city. This thoughtful integration of space enhances the overall visitor experience, making it a memorable part of any trip to Harare.

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