The Investec Cape Town Art Fair is back for its 12th edition, and this year’s theme is all about PLAY. Running from 21 – 23 February at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, the fair is an unmissable event for anyone who loves art, culture, and creative experiences. With 124 exhibitors from Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America, including a record 30 first-time participants, the fair is bigger and more diverse than ever.
Why You Should Go
This is not just an art fair—it’s a full-on experience. Expect immersive installations, insightful talks, and interactive guided walks that make art more engaging than ever. First-time visitors can pick up a visitor’s guide at the entrance and take their time exploring. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just browsing, the fair offers a rare chance to meet artists in person, hear the stories behind their work, and even start your own collection.
What’s New This Year
The 2025 curatorial theme, PLAY, sets the tone for a dynamic experience. It’s all about seeing art as interactive and transformative. Artists have responded with bold, thought-provoking works that invite visitors to engage, question, and explore.
- Interactive Art Walks: The Art Walks programme, curated by Art School Africa, gives visitors a chance to deep dive into the works on display through expert-led tours. They’re free with your ticket, so don’t miss out!
- Talks That Matter: Thought leaders and industry experts will explore big topics like how digital platforms are changing the art world and how African artists are influencing global trends. Discussions include The Role of Digital Media in Contemporary Art, The Power of Art in Global Brand Collaborations, and Imagining a Brighter Future Through Environmental and Social Responsibility.
- Unbound City: Art isn’t just confined to the fair. Throughout Cape Town, museums and galleries will be hosting special exhibitions, giving you even more ways to soak up the creativity.
Must-See Artists
The fair brings together a diverse range of artists, each bringing their own interpretation of PLAY.
- Geena Wilkinson (WORLDART): Known for her nostalgic candy-inspired sculptures, she plays with memory, history, and storytelling in her ceramic and resin works.
- Takeshi Matsugami (Schönfeld Gallery): A Japanese artist blending pop art and neo-expressionism, creating vibrant, playful pieces that comfort while challenging the viewer.
- Matthew Attard (Galleria Michela Rizzo): His multimedia drawings explore how images shape identity, making us rethink the role of visuals in society.
- Wolfram Ullrich (Dep Art Gallery): A German artist pushing the boundaries of painting and sculpture with bold geometric forms that challenge spatial perception.
Where to Eat & Drink
Art appreciation works up an appetite, and the fair has you covered.
- Food Court Highlights: Grab a bite from Zuney’s wagyu burgers, The Khaya Pizza Joint, or Unframed Ice Cream.
- The Gin Bar (Art Hub): The fair’s official after-hours spot serves curated cocktails inspired by the fair’s themes, with DJs spinning tracks to keep the creative energy flowing.
How to Be Part of It
- Dates: 21 – 23 February 2025
- Venue: Cape Town International Convention Centre
- Tickets: Available via Webtickets
- More Info: Visit www.investeccapetownartfair.co.za and follow @investeccapetownartfair on Instagram and Facebook for updates.
Whether you’re there to buy, learn, or simply be inspired, the Investec Cape Town Art Fair is a space to play, engage, and discover the future of contemporary art. See you there!
* Cover Art by Geena Wilkinson (WORLDART)
