Harare’s contemporary art scenery is set to come alive once again as the second edition of the Cheuka Harare Art Fair (CHAF) takes place from November 17 to 19 at East End Hall, Harare Showgrounds.
The dates were announced during a press event held at Mara Mara Restaurant and Cocktail Bar last week, where organizers outlined plans for an expanded fair that will spotlight artist-run initiatives, collectives and residencies from across Southern Africa and the wider continent.
Speaking during a round-table discussion, cultural and heritage advocate Farai Mpfunya said “The fair aims to establish itself as a platform that is firmly rooted in Zimbabwe while remaining open to international engagement.”
“CHAF is building a fair that is rooted here — in Harare, in Zimbabwe and in the Southern African region — while opening its doors to the world,” said Mpfunya.
He added that the event seeks to create powerful exchanges between local creatives and international collectors, curators and art enthusiasts.
Mpfunya also highlighted the importance of identifying and investing in Harare’s creative sector, describing culture and the arts a crucial components in positioning the city as a leading cultural destination on the African continent.
Organizers agree this year’s edition will be greater than the inaugural event, with an enlarged exhibition space expected to accommodate a wider range of participants and artistic projects.
The fair arrives at a time when Zimbabwean artists continue to gain international recognition, creating new opportunities for local creatives to connect with international audiences and markets.
Beyond showcasing artistic talent, CHAF seeks to contribute to the growth of Zimbabwe’s creative economy while adopting collaboration among artist-run spaces, collectives and residencies across Africa.
