Yebo! Art & Design

Yebo! Art & Design stands as a vibrant cornerstone of the creative landscape in Ezulwini, Eswatini. Established in 2010 by Aleta, Pete, and Dane Armstrong, this dynamic space is far more than a traditional store; it is a contemporary art gallery, a working design studio, and a proud purveyor of locally handcrafted merchandise. Located on Mpumalanga Road in the Hhohho District, the business has built a sterling reputation, reflected in its 4.6-star rating from 34 reviews, as a hidden gem where visitors encounter thought-provoking artwork and unique artifacts. The team here is passionate about promoting the arts and fostering the growth of the creative economy by collaborating with the most talented professional and emerging artists from across Eswatini and the wider African continent.

For over a decade, Yebo! has been instrumental in shaping the region's art scene, having curated more than 65 exhibitions and working with over 100 artists. The space operates as a dual-purpose destination: a serene gallery that hosts rotating exhibitions and a creative workshop where an exclusive range of merchandise is designed and screen-printed by hand. This dedication to both fine art and accessible design makes the location a must-visit for art collectors, interior designers, and tourists seeking authentic, handcrafted Eswatini souvenirs. The establishment's commitment extends beyond commerce, actively engaging with social and environmental issues through its community-focused initiatives and its affiliated non-profit, ArtReach. This deep-rooted philosophy ensures that every visit to Yebo! is not just a transaction, but a meaningful interaction with the living culture of Eswatini.

Services & Creative Offerings

Yebo! Art & Design bridges the gap between fine art appreciation and functional, wearable design. The services available on-site cater to a wide audience, from art collectors investing in original paintings to shoppers looking for a unique, locally made gift. The studio's hands-on approach ensures that every item in the gift shop tells a story of local craftsmanship and artistic integrity.

Art Gallery & Exhibitions

The main gallery space is dedicated to showcasing cutting-edge contemporary art from Eswatini and Africa. With a history of over 65 curated shows, exhibitions like "African Meditations", "Eswatini NOW!", and "The Future is Young" highlight the diverse narratives of the region. The gallery provides a vital platform for both established professionals and emerging talents to display their work, offering collectors and enthusiasts a chance to acquire significant pieces directly from the source.

Handcrafted Merchandise & Screen Printing

Beyond the gallery walls, Yebo! operates a bustling design studio where an exclusive range of merchandise is conceived and brought to life. Every item is meticulously designed and screen-printed by hand at their workshop, ensuring high quality and authentic local production. Visitors can explore a diverse collection of products that celebrate Eswatini's culture and creativity.

• T-shirts and tote bags featuring unique African designs
• Home decor items such as pillowcases, table runners, tablecloths, and tea towels
• Artistic wall hangings and decorative magnets
• Functional art including mugs, tiles, coloring books, and notebooks

Why Choose Us

Choosing Yebo! Art & Design means supporting a business that is deeply invested in the cultural and economic vitality of Eswatini. Unlike mass-produced tourist shops, Yebo! offers an authentic connection to the local creative community. The founders, Aleta, Pete, and Dane Armstrong, have cultivated an environment where art is not only displayed but actively created and discussed.

The establishment's 4.6-star rating from 34 reviews speaks volumes about the exceptional visitor experience. Reviewers frequently describe the space as a "hidden gem" and praise the thought-provoking nature of the artworks on display. The unique artifacts and the impressive working space for local talents make it a standout destination in the Ezulwini valley.

• Direct support for over 100 local and continental artists
• Access to exclusive, hand-printed merchandise unavailable elsewhere
• A serene and inspiring gallery environment
• A commitment to social justice and environmental action through art

Community Impact & Vision

Yebo! Art & Design operates with a profound vision that extends far beyond commercial success. Over the next five years, the organization aims to continue growing the creative sector of Eswatini while focusing heavily on environmental and social issues. They utilize art as a powerful tool to address critical topics such as climate change, women's rights, skills training for the youth, and creative freedom of expression.

ArtReach Non-Profit Initiative

Central to their community impact is ArtReach, a separate non-profit organization founded by Yebo in 2012. ArtReach works tirelessly to run creative community arts projects throughout Eswatini. By collaborating with local artists on murals, public art installations, skills training workshops, and creative development programs, ArtReach provides unemployed youth with valuable training and support, fostering positive change and empowering the next generation of Swazi creatives.

Location & Accessibility

The primary gallery and studio are conveniently situated on Mpumalanga Road in Ezulwini, right in the heart of the Hhohho District. This central location makes it an easily accessible stop for tourists exploring the valley of Eswatini. While the main gallery is the creative hub, Yebo! has expanded its footprint to ensure their exclusive merchandise reaches a broader audience.

• Main Gallery & Studio: Mpumalanga Rd, Ezulwini H126, Eswatini
• Swazi Candles Centre Shop: Open 7 days a week for convenient tourist access
• Ngwenya Glass Shop: Another accessible location for visitors exploring the Ngwenya area

Operating Hours & Contact Information

Planning a visit to Yebo! Art & Design is straightforward, with multiple locations offering varied hours to accommodate different schedules. Whether you are looking to spend a leisurely afternoon viewing fine art or need a quick stop to pick up handcrafted gifts, their doors are open to welcome you.

Main Gallery & Studio Hours

• Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Saturday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• Sunday: Closed

Retail Shop Hours

• Swazi Candles Centre: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (All week)
• Ngwenya Glass: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (All week)

Contact Details

For inquiries regarding exhibitions, custom design work, or general information, the Yebo! team is readily available. You can reach out via phone or email, or visit their website to explore their current exhibitions and news updates.

• Phone: +268 7914 6951
• Email: yeboartgallery@gmail.com
• Postal Address: PO Box D124, The Gables, Eswatini
• Website: yeboartgallery.com