Dedza Handmade Art Gallery
About This Museum
Perched in the highlands along the main route from Lilongwe to Blantyre, the Dedza Handmade Art Gallery is a beloved pitstop for anyone seeking authentic Malawian craft. You won't find sterile white walls here; instead, the air hums with creativity as local artisans shape clay and carve wood right before your eyes. The gallery bursts with color, from vibrant hand-painted bowls and intricate textiles to whimsical animal sculptures that seem to have a life of their own. It’s less a formal museum and more a living, breathing celebration of local skill, making it incredibly easy to leave with a car full of unique souvenirs and a genuine connection to the artists.
Collection Highlights
Look for the famous Dedza pottery, known for its distinctive chattering patterns and earthy glazes. The gallery also showcases beautiful wooden storyboards that depict scenes from Malawian village life, alongside bold printed fabrics and baskets woven with remarkable precision.
Visitor Information
It's right on the T372 highway, so it's very easy to pop in. They accept both cash and mobile money payments, and you can often watch the potters at their wheels during weekday afternoons—don't be shy about asking how it's done!
Architecture & Building
The gallery is housed in a simple, rustic building with a red corrugated iron roof that feels completely at home in its surroundings. It’s unpretentious and functional, designed more as a welcoming workshop than a grand exhibition hall.
Contact & Location
Address: Dedza, Central Region, Malawi
Phone: +265 993 24 36 74
