Top 6 Art Galleries in Woodstock

Top 6 Art Galleries in Woodstock

Holidays to South Africa provide ample opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich artistic culture which the country has to offer. Whichever area you visit, you won’t be too far from a wide range of art galleries, displaying works from local, national and international artists. 

If you are a culture buff and keen to get your fix of fabulous artwork during your trip to South Africa, you should make sure you pay a visit to the vibrant suburb of Woodstock. A suburb of Cape Town, this revitalized area boasts a fabulous selection of art galleries, each showcasing incredible works to suit a diverse mix of tastes.

Here are the top six galleries in Woodstock you should be sure to take in:

Stevenson Gallery 

Opened in 2003, Stevenson Gallery has spaces in both Cape Town and Johannesburg and is open every day apart from Sunday. The gallery houses a diverse range of eclectic works by more than 30 artists, each with their own, unique style. Whether sculpture, paintings or abstract installations are your preference, Stevenson has it all.

The latest exhibition expected at Stevenson is to be one by Wim Botha, his ninth at the gallery since it was first opened. Comprising of paintings, sculpture and installation, the exhibition will closely follow his survey presentation at the Norval Foundation.

Blank Projects 

This independent gallery is actually run by artists, making it a unique space for both projects and art. Founded in 2005, it can be found in the heart of Woodstock’s art district.

Promoting the latest in contemporary South African art, Blank Projects encourages innovative ideas, showcased in contemporary art, championing experimental works by both established and emerging artists. It is also an area for events and talks by renowned artists; which visitors are invited to attend.

Working in collaboration with the Swiss Agency for Development & Cooperation and Pro Helvetia, this gallery also has a residency programme for visiting artists, allowing them to grow the connection between South African and European artists.

SMAC Gallery 

SMAC Gallery first opened its doors in Stellenbosch in 2007 on the first floor of the historic De Wet building, and in 2011 the Woodstock gallery was opened. A 1200 square-metre space offering plenty of room for a wide range of exhibitions, it quickly gained acclaim for presenting large, contemporary exhibitions, which were observed to be of museum quality. 

Aside from expansive exhibitions, expect to find thoroughly researched catalogues, books and monographs. SMAC hosts artwork from some of South Africa’s most-acclaimed artists, such as Cyrus Kabiro, and to promote international exchange it also hosts renowned international artists like Richard Long and Arnaldo Pomodoro.

What If The World Gallery 

What If The World was founded in 2008 and has since become internationally renowned as being one of the world’s finest contemporary art galleries. As you would expect from its title, What If The World is a regular participant in international art fairs, including New York’s Armory Show, and London’s 1-54.

The gallery focuses strongly on South Africa and the African continent as a whole, representing influential artists who range from the well-known to the burgeoning talents for which the country is famed. What If The World’s gallery programme is specifically dedicated to the ambitious solo projects of its artists and to multi-disciplinary installations. 

The gallery’s artists have had their work displayed in prestigious galleries all over the world, and if contemporary art, especially that with a socio-political context, is your thing, you must stop in at What If The World during your trip to Cape Town.

Goodman Gallery 

The Goodman Gallery is one of the longest-standing international art galleries in the country.

Initially established in Johannesburg in 1966, it is home to a fantastic array of contemporary pieces which strive particularly to shift perspectives and give rise to social transformation.

As well as representing artists who have helped to shape the contemporary landscape in South Africa’s artistic world, the Goodman Gallery also champions younger artists and it is constantly working with emerging talents. The gallery also operates the Goodman Projects programme,  which was initiated in 2009 and has since presented more than 20 progressive installations, exhibitions and performances. 

Exposure Gallery 

The Old Biscuit Mill is a vibrant village community situated right in the heart of Woodstock, and within it lies the Exposure Gallery, a photographic concept store which is the main platform for local photographers. 

Exposure Gallery does exactly what the name suggests, offering a platform for emerging talents to showcase their work, however well-known talent is also exhibited here, which results in an eclectic variety of work on show.

There is also a wide selection of inspirational photography books, and visitors have the opportunity to purchase photographs which can be custom-printed onto lampshades, wallpaper, canvas, paper and framed prints.