The African Art centre in Durban was established in 1959 with the backing of the South African Institute of Race Relations. The African Art Centre became a non profit organization in 1982, and the primary focus is on assisting both local and young artists and craftsmen in KwaZulu Natal, by providing them with adequate funding, necessary training, and publicity through various exhibitions and displays.

The African Art Centre also strives to uncover new skills by encouraging and developing this talent and creativity. The centre aims to use the documentation of contemporary African art and craft trends, and in doing so hopes to preserve the cultural heritage of South Africa. A massive variety of exceptional artworks are housed within the centre, not only providing prospective buyers with an almost endless variety to choose from, but providing many of the craftspeople, with a source of income.

In doing so, one might also be assisting in building the reputation of the artists, improving their chances to achieve both national and international fame. And, as the Art Centre can provide one with insight and information into the various artists and craftsmen, one can be sure that they will be making a well informed decision with every purchase. Many of the artists that have been encouraged and developed through the African Art Centre, have become well known both in South African and internationally.

Art featured at the African Art Centre include a variety of beadwork, both traditional and contemporary; beaded cloth sculptures and dolls; a variety of traditional grass and telephone wire baskets; a number of ceramic pieces which include traditional Zulu beer pots; hand painted, beaded, and embroidered fabrics, as well as meat platters and spoons carved from wood, and a fine selection of woven rugs and tapestries.

Opening Hours : Monday to Friday 08h30 to 17h00, Saturdays 09h00 to 15h00, Sundays / Public Holidays 10h00 to 15h00 by appointment only (phone during office hours to book)
Address : 94 Florida, Durban, 4001, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
Contact : (tel) +27 (0) 31 312 3804/5 (fax) +27 (0) 31 312 3818