The unique architectural design of Radisson Blu Hotel in Zambia incorporating an underground tunnel has transformed it to be the newest art gallery in Lusaka. The Temwani art gallery is yet to be officially opened by the end of January 2018. It is located between a doomed shaped building and annex. Temwani gallery will provide both economic and social values to Zambia and act as a platform for cultural exchange.
The name of the gallery is derived from a Chi-Nyanga word which means to be happy. Those who visit the place are, therefore, expected to be happy and recommend the facility for others. It will be the first “Art for Rent” platform since the village business can be rent to the corporate world.
Some of the renowned artists in Zambia have begun using the facility. These include David Chibwe, Victor Makashi, Raphael Mutulikwa, Style Kunda, Patrick Mumba and Nukwase Tembo.According to Roy Kausa who is the gallery coordinator, the facility operates uniquely. This is because they want the people from various communities to share their life experiences and skills while recognizing that all are equal. Moreover, they want the community members to support one another hence the gallery will be led by a headman or headwoman.
The leader of the community will ensure they hold a monthly meeting with the members and the agenda of the meeting will be the artworks in the exhibitions. The management will also ensure Temwani gallery works in collaboration with other art galleries in Zambia hence encouraging the corporate world to begin collecting arts.
The formation of Temwani Village Night, an interactive forum stands out to be the main aim of forming this art gallery. In this forum, artists shall meet government officials, company executives and art collectors. 50% of the sales made on that night will be channeled to the less fortunate in the society.
Temwani village members led by Raphael Mutulikwa emphasized the need for the corporate world to hire arts hence adding aesthetic value in their respective offices. The members expressed their gratitude to Marius Wolmarans who currently heads Radisson Blu Hotel for their support in ensuring the art gallery is set up.
