What are Art Galleries?
An art museum or art gallery is a building or space for the display of art, usually from the museum’s own collection. It might be in public or private ownership and may be accessible to all or have restrictions in place.
Top Art Galleries in South Africa
Goodman Gallery
The Goodman Gallery in Johannesburg first opened in 1966 and was founded by Linda Givon during apartheid. The culturally and historically important art gallery provided a non-discriminatory space allowing for creative freedom for black artists when it first opened (black artists would often masquerade as waiters to avoid arrest) and is still one of the most distinguished art galleries in South Africa.
During its fifty-plus years, it has been a leader in showcasing contemporary art, highlighting both established artists and rising new talent.
The Iziko South African National Gallery
With Table Mountain looming in the background, The Iziko South African National Gallery is a must-visit during any trip to Cape Town. It is South Africa’s national gallery and houses Dutch, French, Flemish, and British works from the 17th to the 19th century.
The permanent collection regularly rotates so the museum has a full program of temporary exhibitions, as well as visiting exhibits. There is an interesting collection of indigenous sculptures and poignant beadwork that celebrate the unique and creative cultures of the African continent.
Johannesburg Art Gallery
Situated in Joubert Park in the central business district of Johannesburg, the Johannesburg Art Gallery (or JAG to those in the know) is one of the largest galleries on the subcontinent. It has over 9,000 artworks in its collection and 15 exhibition halls.
Within the gallery’s extensive collection, you can expect to see a wide array of mediums including paintings, sculpture gardens, photography, ceramics, and permanent collections. Peruse the important artworks by a number of famous artists: Picasso, Rodin, Ernest Cole, Sekotos, Pierneef, William Kentridge, and Tracey Rose, as well as traditional Southern African art and artifacts.
Circa on Jellicoe
The Circa on Jellicoe Gallery lies in close proximity to Everard Read in Johannesburg in a landmark building on Jellicoe Avenue, purposely designed for the showcasing of contemporary art from South African artists. The Circa Gallery exhibits art installations, new technology demonstrations, lectures on artworks, and music events.
Which is the biggest gallery in South Africa?
Alice Art Gallery is one of the largest privately owned galleries in Africa with a good reputation locally and internationally. The gallery specializes in South African artists and represents over 100 artists with 4000 artworks.
Which is the most famous art Centre in South Africa?
Johannesburg. Situated in Joubert Park in the central business district of Johannesburg, the Johannesburg Art Gallery (or JAG to those in the know) is one of the largest galleries on the subcontinent. It has over 9,000 artworks in its collection and 15 exhibition halls.
Who is the best artist in South Africa?
William Kentridge is South Africa’s most popular and famous artist. He works with an assortment of mediums including print, painting, sculpture, and movies, his artworks have been shown at New York’s MOMA and the Louver in Paris.
What is the expensive art in South Africa?
The highest price ever achieved for a South African painting is Irma Stern’s Arab Priest, at R52,303,600.
- This forgotten Irma Stern painting was unexpectedly found in a London apartment
- The Zanzibari beauty which caught Stern’s eye, titled ‘Bahora girl’ is an enchanting image dating from 1945.