Cape Town has once again solidified its position as a world-class cultural and artistic hub. Recently crowned Time Out’s Best City in the World for 2025, this vibrant metropolis continues to captivate visitors with its breathtaking scenery, diverse culinary scene, and thriving arts culture. As February 2025 unfolds, the city is set to host two major international art events—the Investec Cape Town Art Fair and the Stellenbosch Triennale—transforming the region into a global epicentre for contemporary art.
Investec Cape Town Art Fair 2025: A Celebration of Contemporary Art
The Investec Cape Town Art Fair, the largest contemporary art fair in Africa, will take place from 21 to 23 February 2025 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). This event draws over 30,000 visitors and features more than 124 exhibitors from around the world, including prestigious galleries from Europe, the United States, Asia, and Africa. This year’s fair will welcome an impressive number of 30 first-time exhibitors, the largest group of new participants in its history.
The fair extends beyond the convention center, with a city-wide program that includes guided art walks, panel discussions, and exhibitions at prominent galleries and cultural institutions. These activities offer art lovers, collectors, and industry professionals a deeper understanding of the evolving African art market and its global impact. Notable exhibitors include Afriart Gallery (Uganda), Hunna Art (Kuwait), Galerie EIGEN + ART (Germany), and renowned local galleries such as Goodman Gallery and Stevenson.
Stellenbosch Triennale 2025: A Platform for Multidisciplinary Art
Running from 19 February to 30 April 2025, the Stellenbosch Triennale returns for its second edition with an exciting lineup of artists from across the globe. Held in the picturesque wine country of Stellenbosch, this prestigious event is designed to foster public engagement with contemporary art through sculpture, sound, performance, and visual installations.
Under the curatorial theme “BA’ZINZILE: A Rehearsal for Breathing,” the Triennale invites artists and audiences to reflect on resilience and survival. Among the notable artists participating in this edition are Lebohang Kganye (South Africa), Alexandre Kyungu Mwilambwe (Democratic Republic of Congo), Aline Motta (Brazil), and Thierry Oussou (Benin). The Oude Libertas precinct and various other locations in Stellenbosch will serve as creative spaces, blending the town’s rich history with contemporary artistic expressions.
Must-Visit Art and Cultural Destinations in the Western Cape
For those seeking a deeper dive into Cape Town’s artistic and cultural offerings, several iconic institutions should not be missed. The Norval Foundation in Tokai is a haven for modern and contemporary African art, featuring a spectacular sculpture garden set against the backdrop of Table Mountain. Zeitz MOCAA, housed in a transformed grain silo, boasts the largest collection of contemporary African art in the world and regularly hosts thought-provoking exhibitions and discussions.
Beyond museums, Cape Town’s arts and culture can be explored through the Langa Cultural Precinct, where street art, community projects, and performance arts flourish. Art lovers can also enjoy bespoke art tours offered by Culture Connect SA, which provide curated insights into the city’s thriving creative scene.
Art in the Vineyards: Where Fine Wine Meets Fine Art
Art and wine converge at the Western Cape’s renowned wine estates, where private collections and public exhibitions enrich the visitor experience. Spier Wine Estate supports emerging South African artists through its Creative Block initiative, while Delaire Graff Estate showcases works by esteemed artists such as William Kentridge and Deborah Bell.
The Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden in Stellenbosch is another must-visit, featuring over 60 sculptures by the renowned South African artist in a serene, natural setting.
As Cape Town gears up for an extraordinary season of artistic celebration, visitors can expect an immersive experience that seamlessly blends contemporary creativity with the city’s historical and cultural heritage. Whether attending world-class exhibitions, exploring public installations, or discovering hidden artistic gems, the Western Cape promises an unforgettable journey through the world of art in 2025.
