Nelson Mandela celebrates his 91st birthday on Saturday 18th July. Our beloved Madiba is a multi faceted man that sought out beauty in the face of adversity and drew pleasure from gardening and art during his incarceration on Robben Island. We recommend celebrating Madiba’s birthday with an exploration of some of the fascinating art galleries and museums housing religious, political and social works of art from the Cape Point Route region. Supporting local artists whose work depict the context of our lives in Southern African is something Madiba would enjoy.
The Cape Point Route which extends from Muizenberg to Hout Bay has a vast collection of interesting and informative museums, as well as modern contemporary art galleries that reflect the spirit of our area. What’s more, it’s a great activity on a chilly winters day!
Muizenberg was once a seaside resort for the rich and famous and the “Millionaire’s Mile” of large stone houses along Main Road now forms part of a seaside museum walk incorporating the Natale Labia, which houses temporary and permanent collections of art works. This is a “living museum” where poetry readings, musical evenings and writers’ workshops are held on a regular basis. Viewing is by appointment only.
Further down the road is the Kalk Bay Modern which is well worth a visit. It specializes in Southern African Bushman art and contemporary art with some high quality crafts and textiles. The Kalk Bay Gallery, also on the Main Road, has original limited edition graphics, engravings, prints, African art and artefacts, encompassing the rituals and beliefs so prominent in African culture. Kalk Bay is a treasure seekers paradise with wonderful cobbled lanes and quirky stores, and the harbour as a natural gravitational point for any visitor to this seaside village.
Simon’s Town is the 3rd oldest town in South Africa and home to some superb galleries with the Bronze Age Sculpture House hosting one of the finest exhibitions of bronze sculptures in South Africa as well as a complete working forge. Heather Auer Art and Sculpture Gallery in the Simon’s Town waterfront displays original paintings and bronze sculptures by leading South African artists and also features some Township art and Shona Sculptures.
On the Atlantic side art lovers should stop at Noordhoek Farm Village, a delightful sojourn in its own right, but a paradise for those who appreciate painting, drawing and sculpture. Browse through the galleries that dwell in the Cellars section of the Village, including the Noordhoek Art Gallery, Art Attack, the Eatwell Gallery and the Light from Africa Foundation.
In the picturesque village of Hout Bay is the Sembach Gallery which is housed in one (if not the) oldest restored cottages in the Cape. Victoria Road has two well established galleries and a visit to Imizamu Yethu will open up a vibrant discovery of township artists and sculptors. Imizamu Yethu is fondly referred to as Mandela Park so a fitting way to celebrate Nelson Mandelas birthday and one of his hobbies.
Call the Cape Point Route (021 782 9356) for more information on art galleries and museums and enjoy the fascinating world of colour, texture, design and social commentary or visit our website www.capepointroute.co.za
What's on this weekend....
Sat 18th: Friends of the Ocean kiddies event at Noordhoek Farm Village.
Time: 10h30 - 12h30 Cost: FREE Contact: 021 789 2812
Sun 19th: Sunday Sundowner Jazz Concerts at Simons in Constantia.
Time: 16h00 - 20h00 Contact: 021 794 1143
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