By Ashleigh Nefdt
There’s something to be said about art and the City of Gold. For decades, Johannesburg-based artists have used their talents to express and reflect the socio-political nature of our country. From the struggle years to post-independence, to the current Pan-African contemporary niche.
If you find yourself in the 011, here are some must-see galleries to douse you in inspiration, evoke passion, and paint your mind with new perceptions.
1. Circa Gallery
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Developed alongside the famous and oldest commercial art gallery, Everard Read, CIRCA is a far younger gallery with detailed prominence. Within the curved walls of her grace, CIRCA exhibits profound artworks that immerse contemporary art alongside technology. The Darwin room is the ultimate spot for workshops and lectures.
Hours:
Monday to Friday 9:00am – 18:00pm
Saturday 9:00am – 13:00pm
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2. Everard Read Gallery
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Perhaps the most famous gallery in Johannesburg, Everard Read Gallery is also the oldest contemporary art gallery, boasting over 100 years of fine and modern art. While displaying dynamic South African art, the gallery has also sourced works from international artists. Also situated within the Keyes Art Mile, it’s a must-stop for anyone who wants to enjoy an institution that is not only historical, but also focuses on future manifestations in the artworld.
The next live exhibition is Setlamorago Mashilo: Against the Grain, running from May 13 to June 19.
Hours:
Monday to Friday 9:00am- 17:30
Saturday and Sunday: 09:00-13:00
Info for both CIRCA and Everard Read Gallery: [email protected] / 011 788 4805
3. TMRW Gallery
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The space where art and technology meet. The gallery is amazing for the way in which they intertwine virtual reality and mixed reality as tools to create real experiences.
Hours:
Tuesday – Saturday: 10am – 4pm
Additionally, events within the mile include the Talking Arts Series, which offers visitors the chance to engage in the art world’s “behind the scenes conversations” (Keyes Art Mile).
Info: [email protected]
4. The Melrose Gallery SA
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The Melrose Gallery represents Pan African Contemporary Art, situated in a modern, open space where you can admire the works on display. Their focus is on exhibiting works from new and already established African artists. The Melrose Gallery also conducts SculptX, which is the largest sculpture fair in South Africa in Melrose Arch every September.
Location: 10 High Street, Melrose Arch, 2196, Johannesburg
Hours:
Monday-Friday: 9:00-18:00
Saturday-Sunday: 09:00-17:00
Info: [email protected]
If you’re wondering where to catch a bite nearby, browse through this list of the top Melrose Arch restaurants.
4. Gallery Momo
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Gallery Momo is known for showcasing South Afrrican, African, and international contemporary artworks. They also manage the estates of South African masters of the 20th century. Located in Parktown North, they are situated near the artistic hubs of Johannesburg. Although their viewings are by appointment only, it’s a definite must if you are in the area.
Hours: Appointment based
Their current exhibition is Stories to Tell, Joel Mpah Dooh, which will run until May 22nd.
52 7th Avenue, Parktown North, Johannesburg, South Africa
Info: 011 327 3247
5. Wits Arts Museum
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On the corner of Bertha and Jorissen Streets in Braam, you’ll find the famous Wits Arts museum. An extension of the Witswatersrand University, the gallery exhibits various exciting showcasings designed to educate and inspire.
Their current exhibition is Jacki McInnes’ Filthy Rich/Dirt Poor.
Location: Cnr Jorissen and, Bertha St, Johannesburg
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00-16:00 booking is essential.
Additionally you can also visit the Jack Ginsberg Centre for books and art.
Info: +27 (0)11 717 1000
6. Goodman Gallery
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Goodman Gallery is an international contemporary art gallery which also has space in London. They display the works of artists whose work “inspires social change”.
Located in Rosebank, Goodman Gallery hosts an incredible display of thought-provoking visuals. One of their current exhibitions is Fathom, a group display.
Location:
163 Jan Smuts Ave,
Parkwood, Johannesburg
Hours:
Tuesday-Friday: 9:00-17:00
Saturday 9:00-16:00
Info: [email protected]
7. Maboneng Street Art Tour
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For those who enjoy street art, the Maboneng Street art tour is a must. The tour is situated in the heart of Johannesburg in the Maboneng Precident, and will have you musing in awe at what Johannesburg street artists can create. Bookings can be made on One Day Africa Tours.
Location: departs from Maboneng Precinct, 24 Albrecht St, Jeppestown, Johannesburg
Info: One Day Africa
8. Guns and Rain
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In Parkhurst, Johannesburg, lies the Guns and Rain Gallery, where African art lives. If you find a work that you love, you can purchase it and it can be delivered anywhere in the world.
It’s a must for a more local experience that will make you fall in love with African artworks.
Hours:
View by appointment
Location: Parkhurst, Johannesburg (they state they must be contacted for directions)
Info: [email protected]
Coming soon
9. Spaza Art Gallery
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Located in Troyeville, Spaza Art Gallery is a backyard for artists of all variants and will grant you a truly local experience. The activities on offer go beyond exhibitions, and reach poetry readings, theatre, comedy and music displays. The exhibitions themselves range from paintings to sculptures and incorporate music and dance from community members. The gallery itself is closed for now but is coming soon. They still host activities like mosaic workshops and have an amazing online gallery until the physical location is back in action.
Location: 19 Wilhelmina street, Troyeville, Johanmnesburg
Info: [email protected]
10. SMAC Gallery
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The famous gallery with spaces in Woodstock, Cape Town and Stellenbosch is coming soon to Parkhurst! Be sure to check out any of the great Parkhurst restaurants when you are done at the gallery.
Location: Corner of 4th Avenue &7th Street, Parkhurt, Johannesburg
Picture: Unsplash
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