Most people think they have South Africa’s creative hotspots figured out. Cape Town for its polished galleries. Joburg for its bold urban edge.
But Durban?
If you look past the surfer-filled waves or sweat-inducing curries, you may notice just how much art is bubbling beneath the surface. All you need is to know where to look.
From Glenwood’s buzzing student streets to the harbour’s quiet corners, Durban is full of galleries and hidden creative pockets just waiting to be explored. This guide gives a lineup of the 9 best spots to discover and buy art in Durban that capture the city’s creative spirit.
Founded in 1905, the KwaZulu-Natal Society of Arts (KZNSA) has stood as the epicentre of arts and culture in Durban for over a century. With many homes over the decades, since 1996, it has settled in a custom, state-of-the-art gallery complex in Glenwood.
Its mission is to establish a vibrant cultural hub for the Durban creative community. With frequent exhibitions, if you’re looking for the mecca of both established and emerging artists in Durban, this is the place to go. Their online store is convenient for any art lovers who can’t make it in person.
Location: Glenwood
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The Elizabeth Gordon Gallery is another staple in the Durban art community, showcasing local talent for over 5 decades. With its prime location near the bustling Florida Road, it’s situated in the heart of student and young creative life.
Its rich curation of original works showcases both local talent and artists from across the African continent, including Sudan, Zimbabwe, eSwatini, and Mozambique.
Location: Morningside
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Nestled in the Small Craft Harbour, off Durban’s Victoria Embankment, sits the cosy and quirky BAT Centre. As a community arts development and cultural entertainment centre, it is so much more than just a gallery. From several intimate galleries and art studios to performance halls and music studios, the BAT Centre is devoted to the development of the local art community.
This means it’s the perfect place to source truly authentic art, both contemporary and traditional, from KwaZulu-Natal.
Location: Victoria Embankment
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Founded in 1892, the Durban Art Gallery has been a centrepiece in the recognition and development of African art. They were the first to consider African craft as an art in the 1970s. The Durban Art Gallery continues this legacy today by exhibiting over 3500 works, including traditional baskets, beadwork, carving, clay pots, ceramics, sculptures and wirework.
While there are some permanent exhibitions, featuring artworks tracing back to the 15th century, the roaming ones ensure you’re always in for something new.
Location: Durban Central
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At the heart of the Phansi Museum is the concept of uBuntuArt, rooted in the African philosophy: “I am because you are”. In a building steeped in a rich history, the museum itself houses over 5000 artefacts.
With multiple gallery spaces, its poignant and meaningful exhibitions will soothe any art lover’s soul. There’s also an Art Shop so you can take a little bit of the magic with you.
Location: Glenwood
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Woza Moya is a very special initiative powered by the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust and is worth the short drive out of the city. With the primary goal of alleviating poverty through craft for those both infected and affected by HIV/AIDS.
With its own gallery, it’s able to showcase the remarkable talent of its network of South African artists and crafters. By supporting Woza Moya, you’ll not only be walking home with a stunning piece of art, but you’ll also be helping out an incredible cause.
Location: Hillcrest
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Makiwa Gallery is headed by Makiwa Mutomba, director and main artist, who has a successful career of selling artwork through major galleries. Makiwa showcases not only his own work but also features renowned artists, such as Marlien van Heerden, Tony de Freitas, Dominic Benhura, and Sarah Richards.
While the Makiwa Gallery initially spread to multiple branches beyond Umhlanga’s shores, it has since moved online, reaching a global audience. However, the Umhlanga Rocks store remains its headquarters and in-person store.
Location: Umhlanga Rocks
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Since its establishment in 2000, Tamasa Gallery has earned a reputation for presenting high-quality artwork from South African artists. They focus specifically on emerging artists from KwaZulu-Natal.
With around 3 exhibitions per year, you can always find something new and unique with every visit. Showcasing painting, sculpture, photography and installation, there’s something for every art enthusiast.
Location: Morningside
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Located near the student district, Community ZA is another powerful shared space. It is designed for the creative who appreciates every form of art, music and film, and who loves all things local.
From hosting events to presenting breathtaking and thought-provoking exhibitions, Community ZA is a powerful and important voice in the Durban art community.
Location: Windermere
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After you’ve chosen the perfect piece of art from one of these treasure troves of creativity, the next step is to get the item home without a scratch.
While some of these galleries offer deliveries, others leave the transporting to you. And you want only the best of the best handling and moving your precious and delicate artwork.
Through Wise Move, all it takes is just a few clicks, and you can book an expert moving team to transport your art. Your local Durban artwork will be hanging on your wall, looking pretty, in no time!
