NUCLEO DE ARTE

Installed in a former colonial house, the Nucleo de Arte is the association of Mozambican artists. Founded in 1921, the association has become a real place where most plastic surgeons meet regularly to lounge, chat, discuss or work. The greatest, and in particular the sculptor Chissano, who was initially a mere employee, started there. This one was collecting pieces of wood that he worked in his own way. The elders remember saying, on seeing Chissano's work, that he had no talent for sculpture. But, ironically, Chissano has persevered in this way, becoming over the years the greatest sculptor in Mozambique, he can be found everywhere, even in the airport lobby.
If your schedule allows it, it is best to go to the Nucleo de Arte on Sunday evening, because every Sunday a concert is organised on the stage of the outdoor courtyard. The entrance costs then some meticals. We wander through the artists' studios, the paintings are everywhere, from floor to ceiling. Some artists are present, even in action. We then cross the exhibition room which regularly offers works by painters. It's time to return to the tree-lined courtyard and have a drink at the bar before the concert begins. The atmosphere is quite unique and so dear to Maputo: people mixing around art, culture, music. The Nucleo de Arte is a must in Maputo, great!