Pure Porterville is the Swartland’s latest art festival and runs from Friday 5 October to Sunday 7 October, in the picturesque town of Porteville.
Photograph by Mallix.
The festival aims to put the quaint town on the tourist map. It promises visitors the chance to explore the many country town offerings that make it so appealing. The weekend will give visitors the opportunity to visit artists in their studios, to view and buy their art.
Visitors can expect to find paintings, jewellery, ceramics, woodwork, mosaics and and handcrafted products for sale.
Ronel Bakker Keramiek will be conducting a platter workshop and curate a ceramic exhibition called ‘Pure Klei’. The workshop and exhibition will feature other renowned potters and will take place at her farm studio/gallery.
There will also be group exhibitions at various venues throughout the town. The local gallery, Ebonymoon will feature works by various artists and a range of hand-crafted tableware. Akkediskis Restaurant will be hosting an exhibition by wildlife photographer Erna Muller as well as selling artisanal bakes. Die Ou Meul and Rendevouz restaurants will also showcase artwork.
Artists who will open their studios to the public over the weekend include JP Meyer, Andre Du Toit and Joey Koen. Internationally-renowned Shui-Lyn White will exhibit in her Porterville home, alongside ceramicist Annelie Janse van Rensburg. Woodworkers Johan Beck and Woods of Wisdom will also take part in Pure Porterville.
“In the Abscence of Gravity” by Shui-Lyn White
Besides the art, foodies, music-lovers, outdoor and sports enthusiasts can expect a treat. The Farmers Market will provide a chance to stock up on fresh local produce, preserves and other delicacies. The market specialises in selling produce from local small enterprises.
Beer lovers can expect a chance to visit the craft brewery Indie Ale. Outdoor and sports enthusiasts will get to enjoy a mountain bike cycling event, a fun run and a golfing day. Wildehurst Wine Estate will showcase their wines at the Pure Klei exhibition, giving people the opportunity to sample their wines.
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Almost all the attractions are within walking distance of each other. Visitors can park and stroll through the town to enjoy the art exhibitions, food and buying the local fare. The festival will be taking place with a beautiful mountain backdrop nestled at the foot of the Olifants Mountains.
Porterville is only 150km from Cape Town. To get the best of the festival and the town, why not spend the night in Porteville?
There are no tickets required for the festival.
For more information, visit portervilletourism.co.za or contact 0229313732.
Also read: The locals’ guide to exploring the Boland and beyond
