The 2012 Zambian Art and Design Show
On November 18th 2012 the Zambian Art and Design Show (ZADS), a much anticipated annual event, took place at the Lusaka Showgrounds within the Polo fields. ZADS offered an exciting opportunity to see the very best of Zambia’s quality products with over 40 exhibitors and a food court to keep guests refreshed.
History of ZADSThe Zambian Art and Design Show started in 2007 as a simple Christmas Fair in the back garden of Sugar Bush Farm in Lusaka. Gillie Lightfoot and her husband are the owners of Sugar Bush. Gillie had been making handbags for about a year and invited a few other Zambian-based artisans to join her. Ham rolls, mince pies and a cup of coffee were provided for those who came, and the little show went well!
The 2008 show had 40 exhibitors under a big marquee and was an enormous success with around 1500 visitors. The show was rapidly outgrowing Sugar Bush Farm. By 2010 The Zambian Arts and Design Show was born, a committee was formed and the show became a professional event.
In 2011, ZADS was moved to the Polo Club in the Lusaka Agricultural Showgrounds, with sponsorship from Danida to set up a large exhibit for individual Zambian artists alongside more than 40 private companies and individuals.
ZADS 2012This year’s show was the biggest and best yet, taking place Sunday, November 18th, from 09:00 to 16:00 hours. Entrance fees for adults were just K25, 000 and children below 12 years went free.
Over 40 exhibitors from Zambia and a few neighbouring countries were at the show. Merchandise included everything from T-shirts to handmade glassware, furniture, jewellery and nougat, recycled fashion and hand-woven rugs to hand painted textiles, leather luggage and pottery.
The venue included a full bar, a food court and live music. There was also children’s entertainment — to keep the kids busy while parents browsed through the stands.
For more details about the show please visit the ZADS website here or use the organisers contact details from The Best of Zambia here.