Cape Town’s thriving art scene this winter presents a dynamic exploration of tradition and innovation, with a focus on leading voices in contemporary African art.

At Zeitz MOCAA, the 100,000-square-foot museum at the V&A Waterfront, Rita Mawuena Benissan’s solo exhibition One Must Be Seated (13 Nov 2024 – 5 Oct 2025) reimagines powerful Akan symbols like the royal umbrella and stool—emblems of authority and heritage. This deeply personal exhibition reflects her connection to Ghanaian culture, offering a fresh perspective on tradition and identity. Afterward, visitors can unwind at the OCULAR Lounge on Level 6, enjoying panoramic views of Table Mountain and the cityscape, particularly stunning at sunset.

The Iziko South African National Gallery offers a rich blend of historical and contemporary art. Its collection spans centuries, from 17th-century British, French, Dutch, and Flemish art to modern South African and African works. The exhibition Tata Madiba: Father of Our Democracy, Father of Our Nation honours Nelson Mandela, delving into South Africa’s struggle for freedom and democracy, making it an essential stop for those interested in the country’s profound history.

A short walk from the gallery leads to the District Six Museum, a former Methodist Mission Church transformed into a tribute to the community forcibly removed during apartheid. Photographs, testimonies, and reconstructed home interiors tell the story of over 60,000 displaced residents, evoking both sorrow and resilience.

The Norval Foundation showcases Norman Seeff: Homecoming (14 Nov 2024 – 5 Feb 2025), celebrating the Johannesburg-born photographer’s iconic portraits of global music legends, from The Rolling Stones to Ray Charles and Michael Jackson. This exhibition offers a rare insight into Seeff’s creative process and cultural impact. Be sure to pay a visit to the sculpture garden features works by artists from South Africa and the rest of Africa including Wind Sculpture SG (III) by Yinka Shonibare CBE!

At Goodman Gallery, Gathering Fragments (23 Nov 2024 – 11 Jan 2025) features nine artists, including El Anatsui and Ghada Amer, whose works explore abstraction as a lens for interrogating history, power, and cultural narratives. Their layered, interconnected pieces provoke thought and challenge perceptions of contemporary African identity.

Finally, Stevenson Gallery’s Juxtapositions: Then and Now (7 Dec 2024 – 8 Feb 2025) bridges the past and present through the works of 46 artists. This exhibition encourages a dialogue between traditional forms and modern innovation, offering a comprehensive look at Cape Town’s evolving artistic landscape, with contributions from artists across Africa and the Diaspora.