My Journey Opening an Art Gallery in Lusaka
By Lunga Phiri
Opening an art gallery in Lusaka wasn’t just a dream—it was a leap of faith. I remember sitting on my porch, sipping on a cold Mosi, as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over my neighborhood. It was in that moment that I realized art was more than just decoration; it was a way to tell our stories, our struggles, and our triumphs. So, I decided to transform that feeling into reality.
The Spark of Inspiration
I’ve always had a love for art, but it wasn’t until I attended a local exhibition that the idea struck me like a bolt of lightning. The way the artists poured their souls onto canvas, the conversations sparked among strangers, and the sense of community—it all felt electric. I thought, "Why not create a space for Zambian artists to showcase their talents?"
Of course, the journey wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows. I had my doubts. Was I really ready to dive into something as big as this? What if no one showed up? But deep down, there was a little voice that kept saying, “Just do it!”
Finding the Perfect Space
I started my quest for the perfect location. That’s when I stumbled upon a quaint building in the heart of Lusaka. It had character—old brick walls, wooden floors, and large windows that begged for sunlight. I could already envision the bright colors of paintings splashing against the walls. But securing the space was no easy feat. Negotiating with the landlord felt like trying to barter with a goat herder: tricky!
However, after a few back-and-forths and a little charm, I finally signed the lease. I felt a mix of excitement and terror. This was it! My gallery was taking shape.
Gathering the Artists
Next up: finding artists. I reached out to friends, posted on social media, and even attended local art fairs. I wanted to showcase a diverse range of talent—from seasoned artists to fresh faces. I remember meeting a young lady named Grace. She was shy at first, but when she shared her story about growing up in the Copperbelt, her passion shone through. I knew I had to include her work.
Each artist brought their unique flavor, and I loved seeing how their styles differed yet complemented each other. It was like putting together a puzzle, and every piece mattered. The excitement in the air was infectious.
The Grand Opening
The day of the grand opening felt like a wedding day—nerves, anticipation, and a sprinkle of chaos. I had planned everything down to the last detail: the guest list, the snacks, even the music. But nothing could prepare me for the overwhelming sense of pride I felt as I watched people fill the gallery.
Friends, family, and even strangers popped in, drawn by the colors and the energy. I remember standing in the corner, just soaking it all in. I saw Grace laughing with a couple of visitors, sharing her journey through her art. It was magical.
But not all moments were picture-perfect. Some people didn’t connect with certain pieces, and I could see the disappointment in the artists’ eyes. I quickly reminded them that art is subjective; it’s all about finding the right audience.
The Challenges
Running an art gallery comes with its hurdles. There were days when I barely made enough to cover the rent, let alone pay the artists. I had to learn about marketing and promotions, all while trying to maintain the gallery’s integrity. I remember a time when I thought about shutting it down. “What’s the point if no one appreciates the art?” I asked myself.
But then I received a heartfelt message from an artist, thanking me for providing a platform to showcase their work. That was my wake-up call. I realized that this wasn’t just about sales; it was about community, support, and growth. I had to push through the tough times.
Building a Community
Slowly, the gallery became a hub for creatives. We hosted workshops, discussions, and even open mic nights. People started to come not just to view art but to connect, share stories, and inspire one another. I felt like I was building a family, one brushstroke at a time.
One of my favorite events was a night dedicated to women artists. We had poets, painters, and musicians come together to celebrate female creativity in Zambia. The room was filled with laughter, wisdom, and a sense of unity. It reminded me why I started this journey in the first place.
Lessons Learned
Looking back, I’ve learned that passion can be a powerful driving force. There were moments when I wanted to give up, but it was the love for art and the community that kept me going. I’ve discovered the importance of resilience and the beauty of collaboration. Each artist’s story is intertwined with mine, and I wouldn’t trade that for anything.
I’ve also learned that success isn’t just measured in profits. It’s about the impact you make and the connections you build. I want every artist who walks through my doors to feel valued and seen.
Moving Forward
As I sit here now, reflecting on this incredible journey, I feel grateful. My gallery has become a space where creativity flourishes and dreams come to life. I want you to know that if you have a passion, chase it!
Whether it’s art, music, or any form of expression, believing in yourself is half the battle. You might face challenges, but remember, every setback is just a setup for a comeback.
So, what do you think? Do you have a dream you’re eager to pursue or a story to share? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!