The William Humphreys Art Gallery provides for the aesthetic and cultural needs of the local community it serves as well as of the people of South Africa.

To this end it collects, preserves, documents, researches and exhibits works of art which represent the artistic heritage of all South Africans and utilises its assets for the edification, enrichment and enjoyment of the people. This it does by pursuing the highest standards of excellence and without regard to race, class, creed or gender.

In terms of the Public Finance Management Act the Council of the William Humphreys Art Gallery is the Accounting Authority.