Zimbabwe’s vibrant art scene is set to take centre stage in Cape Town as Harare-based DPA.ART launches its inaugural South African exhibition, “First Light,” from 18 to 23 February 2025. Held at 61 Loop Street, the event coincides with the prestigious Investec Cape Town Art Fair, providing a platform for emerging Zimbabwean artists to showcase their work to an international audience.
Curated with a mission to amplify the voices of Zimbabwe’s youth, DPA.ART brings a fresh and dynamic perspective to contemporary art. According to Milly McPhie, the founder and director of DPA.ART, the exhibition is a celebration of the creative revolution currently unfolding in Zimbabwe.
“Zimbabwe is brimming with extraordinary talent,” McPhie said. “In recent years, we’ve seen a departure from traditional artistic narratives, with young artists expressing themselves with remarkable confidence and innovation. It’s an exhilarating time for Zimbabwean art.”
The exhibition promises to capture the essence of Zimbabwe’s contrasts, from its lush landscapes to arid thornveld, and its economic divides to rich cultural diversity. These dualities serve as a wellspring of inspiration for the country’s artists, who are exploring new ways of interpreting life in the 21st century. “First Light” will offer a poignant glimpse into their unique perspectives while highlighting the bold creative energy that defines this new generation.
DPA.ART is part of Design Publishing Africa (DPA), an organisation founded by McPhie to promote Zimbabwe’s cultural industries. Through exhibitions, mentorship programmes, and connections to international art markets, DPA.ART is committed to fostering a sustainable future for local artists. McPhie’s dedication to inclusivity and empowerment is reflected in her approach, which combines global exposure with the tools necessary for long-term success.
“We are building an inclusive platform where Zimbabwean artists can thrive,” McPhie explained. “By providing mentorship and access to international markets, we’re giving them the opportunity to prosper and take their rightful place on the global stage. It’s thrilling to be bringing their work to Cape Town.”
DPA.ART held its first exhibition in October 2024 at The Dome, a unique gallery space set in the savannah outside Harare. The success of this showcase was a defining moment for Zimbabwe’s art scene, offering many local artists their first opportunity to present their work to the public. Building on this momentum, DPA.ART is preparing to open a second venue, The Treehouse, in Chimanimani’s Eastern Highlands later this year.
The Treehouse, co-founded by McPhie and three partners, blends art and nature in a strikingly modern lodge overlooking the Honde River. With six log cabins featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and breathtaking views of Chimanimani National Park, the venue aims to introduce visitors to a hidden gem of Zimbabwe while providing a platform for artistic expression.
McPhie’s work with DPA.ART is just one facet of her commitment to showcasing Zimbabwe’s cultural brilliance. With a background at British GQ and GQStyle.com, she launched Design//Life magazine in 2023 to highlight the country’s creative talent. Combining long-form writing, interviews, and stunning visuals, the magazine has garnered an international readership, strengthening the link between Zimbabwean artists and the global community.
“Through our exhibitions, publications, and collaborations, we are shining a light on Zimbabwe’s creative brilliance,” McPhie said. “This is a moment for the world to see the extraordinary talent coming out of our country.”
“First Light” will be open daily from 11 am to 7 pm at DPA.ART, 2nd Floor, Habitus, 61 Loop Street, Cape Town. The exhibition promises to captivate audiences, marking a pivotal moment in Zimbabwe’s cultural narrative and solidifying its place in the global art world.
