Zimbabwe’s burgeoning art scene is witnessing a revolution, and at the forefront of this transformative movement is DPA.ART, a branch of Design Publishing Africa (DPA). Founded by Milly McPhie, an accomplished editor with a background at British GQ, GQ.com, and GQStyle.com, DPA.ART is committed to spotlighting the exceptional creativity of Zimbabwean artists and fostering a platform for their global recognition.
By Plot Mhako
DPA.ART debuted in October 2024 with a highly acclaimed exhibition at DPA @ The Dome. This unique gallery, nestled in the savannah just outside Harare, provided many Zimbabwean artists their first opportunity to publicly showcase their work. The success of this show has laid a solid foundation for DPA.ART’s mission to amplify new voices in the art world.”
Milly McPhie
In 2025, the organization will expand its reach with the opening of DPA @ The Treehouse, an inspiring gallery space located at a new lodge in Chimanimani, Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands. The Treehouse, co-founded by Milly McPhie and three partners, is a 22-person lodge featuring six modern log cabins with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Honde River and Chimanimani National Park. This serene and picturesque setting will serve as a retreat for artists and art enthusiasts, offering an immersive cultural experience in one of Zimbabwe’s most breathtaking regions.
The Global Stage Beckons
Building on its momentum, DPA.ART will host its first international exhibition, “First Light,” in Cape Town, South Africa, from February 18-23, 2025. The show will coincide with the prestigious Investec Cape Town Art Fair, positioning DPA.ART and its collection of emerging Zimbabwean artists on a significant international platform. Held at 61 Loop Street, the exhibition will showcase a bold and dynamic range of artworks that reflect the vibrancy, resilience, and evolving creative energy of Zimbabwe’s youth.
“Zimbabwe is packed with extraordinary talent,” says DPA.ART Director Milly McPhie. “Over the past three years, we’ve witnessed a shift in artistic expression. Our young artists are showing immense confidence in breaking away from traditional expectations and carving their unique creative identities. It’s an exhilarating time for the art world in Zimbabwe.”
Zimbabwe’s contrasts—lush forests and arid thornveld, economic challenges and cultural richness—provide fertile ground for creative exploration. The artworks featured in “First Light” embody these experiences, offering insight into life in 21st-century Zimbabwe.
Beyond exhibitions, DPA.ART is deeply invested in artist development. The organization provides mentorship and skills training to help artists sustain their careers in creative industries. “By building a vibrant and inclusive platform, DPA.ART is empowering artists to express themselves fully and freely,” explains Milly. “We aim to give them the exposure and tools they need to thrive locally and internationally.”
DPA.ART is one of many initiatives under Design Publishing Africa. In 2023, Milly McPhie launched Design//Life, a magazine celebrating Zimbabwe’s creative excellence through long-form articles, interviews, and striking visual narratives. The magazine has a growing readership both in print, available in Zimbabwe, and online, with subscribers in the UK, US, and beyond.”
With projects like DPA.ART, Design//Life, and the development of DPA @ The Treehouse, Milly McPhie is redefining Zimbabwe’s cultural landscape. As Zimbabwean artists step onto the international stage, the country’s creative narrative is being rewritten—vivid, unbound, and alive with possibility.
“First Light” will run from February 18-23, 2025, at DPA.ART, 2nd Floor, Habitus, 61 Loop Street, Cape Town CBD (above Kalashnikovv Gallery). The exhibition is open daily from 11 am to 7 pm.
Founder of earGROUND, Jibilika and Amplifaya Festival. Creative entrepreneur, cultural producer, award-winning journalist, arts community champion with two decades of dedicated experience.
