As a passionate advocate for the arts and a frequent traveler, my journeys often lead me to Cape Town—a city that vibrates with cultural richness and innovation. Each visit is punctuated by a trip to the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, a beacon of the South African art scene that never ceases to amaze. The museum’s permanent collection is a treasure trove featuring artists I’ve admired and followed for years. Names like Athi-Patra Ruga, Zanele Muholi, William Kentridge, and Cyrus Kabiru, with his imaginative C-Stunners, offer us profound and varied perspectives on seeing the world.
I still recall walking through the construction site of the museum with Isaac Julien, whose works also grace the permanent collection. That memory is a testament to the growth and evolution of this space, which now hosts exhibitions such as Mama Diarra Niang’s „Self as a Forgotten Monument” and „SEEKERS, SEERS, SOOTHSAYERS,“ a compelling group exhibition. These displays underscore the potential, resilience, and creativity inherent in African art.
The narrative of the continent is being rewritten by these artists, who now have a well-deserved voice and presence on the international stage and within the art market. Looking ahead, the Zeitz MOCAA GALA on Sunday, February 11, 2024, promises to be a night of celebration and reflection. Jo-Ann Strauss, a dear friend and emerging voice in the art world, will bring her charm as the emcee of the event. The talented Athi-Patra Ruga has been commissioned to curate the scenography for the evening, ensuring that the gala will be as visually stunning as it is significant.
This gala also heralds the start of the Cape Town Art Week, which unfolds with the Investec Cape Town Art Fair and a host of artistic happenings across the city. The Norval Foundation stands out as another pivotal institution in our local art landscape, alongside galleries like Southern Guild and Goodman Gallery, which continue to showcase the dynamism of African art.
