The Visual Arts Indaba 2024 brought to light the pressing challenges faced by artists in Bulawayo, particularly in accessing sustainable markets for their work. As artists and stakeholders deliberated on actionable solutions, one key resolution emerged: leveraging digital platforms to bridge the gap between artists and collectors. In response, we have taken a significant step by creating an online platform to facilitate art sales for local artists, extending our reach to both local and international buyers.
The Launch of Bulawayo Art and Craft Online
On March 31, 2025, we will officially launch the Bulawayo Art and Craft Online—a digital marketplace on WhatsApp that allows art lovers and collectors in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe and worldwide to purchase artworks securely. This initiative marks a transformative moment in the way Bulawayo artists connect with their audiences, offering a simple, more inclusive and accessible model of engagement. The platform will debut with 10 carefully selected artworks, showcasing the diverse talents of our artists. Some pieces will be available for direct sales, while others will be open for bidding, giving buyers the opportunity to engage in a dynamic purchasing experience.
One of the biggest obstacles to art marketing in Bulawayo has been the lack of exposure to a broader market. Many artists rely on walk-in clients to their studios, local exhibitions and word-of-mouth sales, limiting their potential growth. By shifting to a digital marketplace, we can:
Expand Market Reach: Collectors from across the globe can now access and purchase Bulawayo art with ease.
Offer Secure Transactions: Buyers can confidently invest in artworks through a structured and transparent platform.
Create Sustainable Sales Channels: Unlike sporadic exhibitions, this online platform provides a continuous avenue for sales and artist promotion.
Empower Artists: By giving artists direct access to buyers, we reduce barriers and enhance their earnings.
How to Join and Participate
Joining the Bulawayo Art and Craft Online is simple. Art lovers, collectors, and supporters can become part of the platform by:
Requesting access via an official WhatsApp invite here
Browsing featured artworks and engaging directly with the artists.
Purchasing artwork either through direct sales or participating in live bidding sessions.
Receiving their purchased pieces through secure delivery arrangements.
The launch of this online platform is just the beginning of a larger vision. Moving forward, we aim to integrate more artists, expand the range of artworks available, and develop partnerships with international galleries and collectors. This initiative is a stepping stone toward placing Bulawayo’s vibrant art scene on the global map while ensuring that artists receive the recognition and financial stability they deserve.
By embracing digital transformation, we are turning the challenges of art marketing into opportunities. We invite all artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts to be part of this journey as we redefine the future of art sales in Bulawayo. Together, we can build a thriving, sustainable art market that benefits both creators and collectors alike.
