As with good food and outstanding wines, so too fine art needs to be savoured in order to be appreciated. Regarded as SA’s premier food and wine destination, Franschhoek has added ‘art destination‘ to its résumé.
Home to some of the country’s finest art offerings and a growing number of local and international art enthusiasts, a need arose to establish Art Franschhoek, which will be launched at this year’s Art in Clay exhibitions. A highlight on the Franschhoek events calendar, Art in Clay, which runs from 24 October to 30 November this year, comprises exhibitions in a grouping of six exceptional art galleries in and around Franschhoek, featuring the extensive range of work by leading ceramic artists. They include, among others, David Walters, John Bauer, Elsje Burger, Catherine Landman, Sarah Walters and Paul de Jongh.
Art Franschhoek aims to promote fine art in the valley along with its other strengths, fine food and fine wines. The dedicated Art Franschhoek website will keep visitors up to date on the latest exhibitions by both local and international artists.
These include internationally acclaimed ceramicist David Walters, who designs plates, bowls, and other tableware for clients both locally and abroad. His Ceramics Gallery comprises three intimate showrooms where recent work is offered for sale and his working studio.
The La Motte Museum, situated on La Motte Wine Estate, offers visitors a stimulating cultural-historical experience, with displays depicting aspects of the Rupert family, focusing on Dr Anton and Mrs Huberte Rupert as well as the musical career of their daughter Hanneli Rupert. The largest room in the museum is dedicated to the life and art of one of South Africa’s greatest masters, Jacob Hendrik Pierneef. A selection of contemporary art by other distinguished South African artists can also be viewed.
EBONY showcases classic and contemporary paintings and artworks by some of the most recognised and collectible South African artists. With spaces in Franschhoek and Cape Town it has a respected and vibrant exhibition program. Ebony also participates at various Art Fairs throughout the year. EBONY represents the artists Richard Smith, Zemba Luzamba, Kufa Makwavarara, Oliver Barnett, Jean – Claude Moschetti and Hugh Byrne and collaborates with many other artists and galleries. The gallery works closely with sculptors and ceramicists including Dylan Lewis, Keith Calder, Katherine Glenday, Andile Dyalvane, Lisa Ringwood to name a few.
The Gallery at Grande Provence, which is part of the internationally acclaimed Trent Read Galleries, showcases works by leading and emerging South African artists. An extensive selection of artworks – including paintings, drawings, original prints, sculpture, ceramics, photography and traditional beadwork – are available to view by the public.
A new addition to the list of galleries will be that of the Moór Gallery Franschhoek, scheduled to open in February 2016. It will feature an eclectic selection of South African and international artworks in various media, representing many approaches to art, both traditional and contemporary.
Food, wine and art: ingredients for the ultimate destination experience and the perfect excuse to visit Franschhoek.
Watch press for further details on the launch of the official Art Franschhoek website.
