Discover the Essence of Art: The Investec Cape Town Art Fair and South Africa's Thriving Art Stage

The Investec Cape Town Art Fair is set to return as a major highlight of South Africa's 2025 cultural calendar. From 21 to 23 February 2025, the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) will once again transform into a dynamic hub of creativity, bringing together a diverse collection of contemporary art from across Africa, Europe, North America and Asia. 

Mankebe Seakgoe (BKhz Gallery) -  From "The Invisible Man's Herbarium" Project
Image source: https://tinyurl.com/mss237r7

Marking its much-anticipated 12th edition with an expanded curatorial footprint, the Investec Cape Town Art Fair will showcase 124 exhibitors and welcome 30 first-time galleries. This monumental iteration features 500 artists from 58 nationalities, representing a dynamic cross-section of global contemporary art. This year's art fair is poised to be its most ambitious edition yet and underscores its organisers' commitment to pushing artistic and geographic boundaries.

The Investec Cape Town Art Fair is more than just an exhibition; it is a celebration of the evolving African art landscape and its place in the global scene. Look out for an exciting mix of established and emerging South African talent, alongside other African and international artists bringing fresh, diverse perspectives. This interaction fosters meaningful dialogue, cultural exchange and opportunities for collaboration.

As Africa's largest and most celebrated contemporary art fair, it offers a unique opportunity to showcase the richness and diversity of South Africa to an international audience. 

The Investec Cape Town Art Fair: A Celebration of Diversity and Innovation
The fair's lineup of galleries and artists from around the globe highlight the rich tapestry of contemporary art spanning cities such as Abidjan, Barcelona, Berlin, Cairo, Cape Town, Istanbul, Johannesburg, Kampala, Kuwait City, Lagos, London, Luanda, Maputo, Modica, Paris, Tokyo and Windhoek. The curators, who include notable names like Céline Seror, Mariella Franzoni and Heba El Kayal, will oversee theTomorrow/Today, Solo, Generations and Cabinet/Trophy sections ensuring a diverse yet cohesive collection of pieces that not only align with the exhibition's theme - PLAY but also have the power to captivate and inspire viewers. 

  Image from the Investec Art Fair
Image source:https: https://tinyurl.com/4s8jpwna

Imagine a vibrant tapestry of artistic voices converging from every corner of the globe. Among the participating galleries, Goodman Gallery - with its esteemed venues in Cape Town, Johannesburg and London - stands out for its eclectic and innovative representation of contemporary art. From the heart of Europe, Galerie EIGEN + ART, based in Leipzig and Berlin, is host to eminent artists who continually push the boundaries of creative expression. From Lagos, Nigeria, Kó captures the dynamic spirit of contemporary African art, while from Tokyo, LEESAYA offers a captivating glimpse into the modern narratives of Japanese creativity. Across the Atlantic, Jonathan Carver Moore in San Francisco is home to a rich spectrum of contemporary American perspectives. SMAC Gallery of Cape Town will showcase the evocative works of local talents Mareli Lal and Frances Goodman, reinforcing the region's vibrant and ever-evolving cultural landscape.

For a comprehensive list of participating galleries and artists, please visit the official Investec Cape Town Art Fair website. 

A Weekend of Creative Discovery: Your Ultimate Guide to the 2025 Investec Cape Town Art Fair Activities

Embark on a journey of artistic expression as you explore the rich tapestry of activities on offer at the fair. Each day is meticulously curated to provide a diverse range of experiences - from dynamic art walks and vibrant parties to engaging talks and intimate gallery exhibitions. Whether you are planning your day around a particular session or simply wish to immerse yourself in the full spectrum of Cape Town's creative offerings, the programme promises that every moment will be a gateway to discovery.

Below are some of the highlights we selected from the programme:

The fair will open at 12:30 PM on Friday, 21 February with the "Art Walk with Céline Seror: SOLO Céline Seror" at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. Here, visitors will meander through thoughtfully curated installations that set the stage for the fair's creative narrative. Later afternoon options include "In the Booth: Lo Magno artecontemporanea Hosts a Sicilian Party" from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM - a lively event that skilfully marries artistic expression with the festive spirit of a themed party. In the evening, the City Open Galleries will come alive, with the standout offering of "EBONY/CURATED Hosts 'The Flowers on the Crown of the King'" from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, where intimate gallery settings are transformed into enchanting spaces.
  

Nairy Baghramian - Scratch the Back: Drift (Yellow Ribbon)
Image Source: https://darz.art/en/artworks/69238

Saturday, 22 February will begin with a burst of intellectual and creative energy at The Westin Hotel Convention Square, where "Talk 1: The Role of Digital Media and Film in Contemporary Art" runs from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. This session delves into how technology is reshaping artistic expression - an ideal conversation starter for the day. As midday approaches, one could shift one's focus to the literary side of art with "Clarke's Bookshop x Jonathan Ball Publishers Host About African Art: The ARAK Collection Book Launch and Signing by Ashraf Jamal" at the Cape Town International Convention Centre from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM. 

  Ashraf Jamal - African Art: The ARAK Collection Book
Image source: https://tinyurl.com/wzvk6mu2 

This event offers an intimate glimpse into the narratives and inspirations behind African art. As the day winds down, evening options include reconnecting with creativity at "Talk 5: Bringing the Studio to the Fair: Creative Conversations with the Artists" from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM at The Westin, a session that will provide personal insights directly from the artists.

On Sunday, 23 February, one could savour the fair's blend of heritage and innovation by starting the morning at Zeitz MOCAA with "Unbound City: Zeitz MOCAA Hosts 'One Must Be Seated'" from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM - an exhibition that is designed to encapsulate the transformative spirit of contemporary art. As the afternoon unfolds, options include joining the "Art Walk with Sean O'Toole: Reimagining Craft through Global Makers and Materials" from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, where global craft narratives will be brought to life. Bring the fair to a perfect reflective close with "Unbound City: Stellenbosch Triennale presents BA'ZINZILE Walkabout: A Rehearsal for Breathing" from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM at the Stellenbosch Triennale - an evocative event that invites contemplation on art's enduring impact.

Image Source: https://tinyurl.com/4arj7mme

Whichever events you choose to attend, the carefully crafted programme ensures that every moment offers a new perspective, inviting you to engage deeply with the vibrant world of contemporary art.

Other Must-See Art Exhibitions in South Africa

While the Investec Cape Town Art Fair is the focal point, It is noteworthy that Cape Town is alive with many high-quality exhibitions taking place concurrently in and around Cape Town, creating a region-wide art week. Art enthusiasts can also explore a range of exceptional exhibitions. 

Whether you're in Johannesburg, the Western or Eastern Cape, there's no shortage of creativity to experience. Here are some must-visit exhibitions happening in February and March 2025:

Ernest Cole: House of Bondage (8 February - 20 March 2025, Goodman Gallery, Cape Town)
A rare collection of vintage prints by the legendary photographer Ernest Cole, offering a poignant look at life under Apartheid.

William Kentridge: To Cross One More Sea (25 January - 20 March 2025, Goodman Gallery, Johannesburg)
This exhibition showcases Kentridge's signature mix of drawings, films and sculptures, reflecting themes of exile and memory.

  
William Kentridge: From the "To cross one more Sea" Collection
Image Source: https://tinyurl.com/yvw7wxhn

Unfinished Symphony by Pascal Konan (7 February - 9 March 2025, The Melrose Gallery, Johannesburg)
A stunning showcase of Konan's intricate works, which explore themes of transformation and artistic process.

Cape Town Furniture Week 2025, taking place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre from 18 to 20 February.
This event will feature an exclusive showcase of pieces by Studio Kaja. Their collection offers a striking fusion of art and practicality, capturing the dynamic spirit of Cape Town's creative landscape and inviting viewers to explore a fresh perspective on modern living.

Mandela Bay Arts Festival (22 February - 2 March 2025, Nelson Mandela Bay)
A multi-venue celebration of local craft and design, highlighting the creative talents of the Eastern Cape.

Gillian Bowman - Newton Park in peak hour traffic
Image Source: https://tinyurl.com/3bref5pd

The 2025 Stellenbosch Triennale (21 to 23 February 2025, Stellenbosch) 
Showcasing the innovative work of acclaimed American artist Torkwase Dyson. Dyson is celebrated for her multidisciplinary practice - spanning performance, installation and video. 

Scorched Earth by Wilma Cruise and Richard John Forbes (22 February - 2 March 2025, Knysna) -  An evocative exhibition that explores the interplay between environmental devastation and renewal, showcasing a compelling collection of works that capture both the scars and the resilience of our natural world. 

Cathy Abrahams - A Sacred Matter (16 February - 08 March 2025, Franschhoek) - A deeply introspective solo exhibition by Cathy Abrahams at Everard Read Franschhoek. "A Sacred Matter" invites visitors on a meditative journey where the interplay of numbers and art transcends the physical, offering a sacred space for reflection and renewal.

Ayana V. Jackson - Wild as the Wind
Image Source: https://tinyurl.com/mvpnw3sx

Ayana V. Jackson - The Becoming - SUBJECT (17 February - 24 March 2025, Manor House, Boschendal Wine Estates, Western Cape)
An intimate look into the career of acclaimed American artist Ayana V. Jackson. Ayana is a contemporary artist renowned for her interdisciplinary practice that blends photography, performance and video. She is celebrated for her work that explores themes of identity, race, heritage and the African diaspora, with a particular focus on investigating historical narratives through mixed media and impactful visual storytelling.

Goya and Africa (19 February -19 March 2025, The Westin Cape Town)
A visionary showcase curated by Brundyn Arts, this exhibition bridges European and African artistic narratives, featuring the evocative works of Zimbabwean artist Grace Nyahangare that celebrate a rich cultural dialogue.

Gabrielle Kruger (19 February - 2 April 2025, The Silo Hotel, Vault Gallery, Cape Town)
Gabrielle Kruger is a South African artist renowned for her groundbreaking approach that merges painting with sculptural techniques. Her acclaimed work involves deconstructing traditional methods and reassembling materials into striking, layered compositions that challenge conventional artistic boundaries.

Gabriel Kruger - Cuttings 2024
Image Source: https://www.artsy.net/artist/gabrielle-kruger

Sue Williamson (22 February to 22 March 2025) Iziko South African National Gallery, Cape Town)
Sue Williamson is a pioneering South African artist renowned for her incisive visual narratives that explore themes of history, memory and identity, particularly in the context of post-apartheid society. Her acclaimed work spans photography, video and mixed media installations, offering powerful commentary on the socio-political landscape of South Africa by intertwining personal and collective histories.

Art Meets Luxury: Cape Town's Premier Art & Lifestyle Experience

Cape Town is a city that effortlessly blends art with luxury living. The Atlantic Seaboard, with its breathtaking views and opulent properties, provides the perfect backdrop for this a region-wide art week. For those seeking a truly immersive experience, combining art with living in one of Cape Town's exquisite homes could be the ultimate indulgence.

Hamilton's Property Portfolio offers a selection of homes that provide the ideal setting for art enthusiasts. From elegant villas in Clifton to stylish penthouses in Green Point, these properties offer a luxurious abode with some of the most beautiful views in the world - nature's peerless encore after a day of artistic exploration.

Whether you're an avid collector, a first-time buyer or simply an admirer of fine art, this collective celebration of art is not to be missed. Be sure to book your tickets in advance and plan to savour some of the most remarkable exhibitions happening across the country.

As South Africa's art scene continues to thrive, events like these provide an opportunity to witness the creative pulse of a nation and celebrate the artists who make it all possible.

Disclaimer:
This article provides a curated overview of the Investec Cape Town Art Fair 2025 and other exhibitions happening around the same time. While we have made efforts to ensure the information is accurate and current as at the time of writing, details may change. For the latest updates, we encourage readers to check the official websites or reach out to the organisers directly. This piece is designed to inform and inspire art enthusiasts and professionals, offering a glimpse into what promises to be a landmark cultural event.

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For over 20 years, Hamilton's Property Portfolio has been dedicated to meeting the needs of South Africa's upper property market. Specialising in luxury homes in prime regions such as Gauteng, the Eastern Cape, Western Cape, Garden Route and Winelands, Hamilton's is committed to providing personalised service and expert advice. 

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