KwaZulu-Natal Society of the Arts- Travel Tips
What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Historical & Cultural
South Africa
5 Reviews
Suggested Duration: 2 hours
The KwaZulu-Natal Society of Arts (KZNSA), founded in 1902, is one of Durban's longest-standing art institutions and a key player in South Africa's contemporary art scene. Located in Glenwood, the nonprofit gallery functions as both an exhibition space and a cultural hub, supporting artists through rotating contemporary shows, educational initiatives, seminars, and film screenings. The gallery's programming highlights a diverse array of South African and international voices, with past exhibitions featuring renowned names such as William Kentridge, Penny Siopis, Derrick Nxumalo, and Thando Mama. KZNSA also participates in citywide cultural events like Go!Durban's Connect03 and regularly collaborates with institutions to foster inclusive and multidisciplinary artistic exchange. The gallery complex, completed in 1996 and designed by architects Cindy Walters and Michál Cohen, occupies a thoughtfully designed site that integrates a modern exhibition space with an Edwardian villa and an indigenous garden courtyard. In addition to the main gallery, the venue includes a mezzanine-level café, performance areas, and a shop offering handmade crafts from across Africa. With a calendar that includes visual art, fashion, live music, and independent cinema, KZNSA serves as a dynamic intersection of creativity in Durban, rooted in over a century of artistic engagement.

Reviews of KwaZulu-Natal Society of the Arts

  • attractions-reviews-avatar Nadia Ebrahim Deen
    5
    Reviewed: 2025-02-18

    Loved this.little gem of a place. The waitress was very friendly and accommodating. They didn't have a certain veggies for a meal I ordered so I suggested they tailor it ro what was on hand...meal turned out absolutely scrumptious...was the cous cous salad..loved it will definitely go back . The art was intriguing and I enjoyed the set up and different styles of creativity...an art lovers paradise. I recommend it as a laid-back place where education meets fun on a beautiful level. A must to go see.

  • attractions-reviews-avatar Lindo Gcwensa
    4
    Reviewed: 2024-07-07

    Very nice spot for a quiet date. I was pleasantly surprised to find that they serve alcohol too. The prices for the cocktails are quite high and the service at restaurant is abit slow but otherwise I had a great experience.

  • attractions-reviews-avatar Lara Mellon
    4
    Reviewed: 2024-02-09

    A beautiful gallery to visit with new exhibits regularly on display. The accompanying shop has an excellent variety and range of truly African craft on offer and you’re guaranteed to find something to take home. The cafe and restaurant serves a lovely offering well presented and priced with vegetarian options. Definitely worth a visit.

  • attractions-reviews-avatar Teboho Selatile
    3
    Reviewed: 2022-08-21

    A peaceful venue located in Glenwood, Durban. Depending on which route your maps app takes you, you could drive relatively peacefully through Morningside and Berea to get there, or through the buzz and chaos of the CBD. This is a great venue to have brunch or lunch with friends. Depending on how late your run / cycle ends, you could also opt to get your post-workout meals here. It will be a bit of a wait though so if you’re really hungry, you might need to push the staff to prioritize your meal. The menu options aren’t plentiful, especially if you’re on a strict diet; however, there’s enough to enjoy a decent meal. There are exhibitions in the gallery, which are changed frequently enough. There isn’t enough on display for you to get lost for hours on end exploring artwork and pieces but, there’s enough for a quick walk-through and discussions afterwards. The adjacent Art Store has beautiful crafts. Depending on your budget, you could find good pieces here. There is safe, unstructured parking at the venue. A pleasurable experience overall.

  • attractions-reviews-avatar Christan Boshoff
    5
    Reviewed: 2021-01-09

    Great experience. Beautiful collection of crafts, including ceramics, weaving, recycled plastic products and naive art. Great gifting option and away to see and support community crafters and artist. Totally worth a visit. Lovely conversation with Gloria Hoff - so lovely. Thank you.

FindTourGuide-index
Home
FindTourGuide-tour
Tours
Send Inquiry
FindTourGuide-operators
Operators
FindTourGuide-destinations
Destinations