As the sunny September skies invite us to go outside, Groot Constantia calls us over for a braai, art and other diverse cultural experiences. In collaboration with South African artists, designers, poets, performers and writers, the wine farm is hosting events this month to showcase the many talents reflecting South Africa’s rich heritage.
The heritage programme is curated by Groot Constantia and Koena Art Institute, an organisation owned by the Khoena people, and dedicated to the preservation of the Khoi & San heritage. The collaboration aims to empower South African indigenous communities while showcasing emerging artists.
Dr Diana Ferrus – “I’ve come to take you home” poetry reading:
The South African writer, poet and storyteller of KhoiSan ancestry reads her significant 1998 poem about Sarah Baartman. The popular poem is believed to be responsible for the return of Baartman’s remains to South Africa in 2002. Guests have the opportunity to meet Dr Ferrus and browse her books, which are then available for sale and signing.
- Where: Groot Constantia Iziko Learning Centre, next to Jonkershuis Restaurant
- When: Saturday, 17 September
- Time: 2pm
- Cost: Free
Wire and bead workshop with wire artist Tavengwa Dahwa:
Join Dahwa as she uses colourful wire to make various thoroughly crafted animals and functional decorative ware. The animals range from bright birds to African animals including ostriches, elephants and rhinos. Lots of fun for the whole family.
Book on arrival at the Wine & Gift shop and collect pre-designed frames and beads.
- Where: In front of the Groot Constantia Cloete Cellar
- When: Saturday, 17 September
- Time: Between 10am and 3pm
- Cost: R110
Sibondha n the Irry People Band performance:
Watch the South African musical group perform inspiring harmonies and psalms through smooth Afro and Latino rhythms. The band has appeared onstage alongside global musicians such as Malika, Mambote from Congo, Eclyps from London, and many more.
- Where: In front of Groot Constantia Manor House and next to the Cloete Cellar, at Simon’s Restaurant
- When: Saturday, 24 September
- Time: 12pm to 12.20pm and 12.30pm to 12.50pm
- Cost: Free
Celebrating the Riel in Art – art showcase:
Presented by the Iziko Education Department and Koena Art Institute, a visual and audio exhibit will be showcased, titled ‘Dans Laat die Stof Staan’. The exhibit is particularly aimed at senior phase school pupils, and centres on a celebratory dance, the Rieldans, rooted in San and Khoi traditions. This is one of the oldest indigenous dancing styles in South Africa. Local artists’ work will be displayed, including that of Andries Dirks, Anthony Roach, Marlene Liebenberg and Terence Visagie.
- Where: In the Groot Constantia Iziko Learning Centre next to Jonkershuis Restaurant
- When: Thursday, 1 September to Friday, 30 September
- Time: Open between 10am and 5pm
- Cost: Free
Heritage Day celebration:
National Heritage Day will be celebrated at Simon’s Restaurant with amazing live music and a sizzling braai. The Simon’s Restaurant Braai Platter is intended to be paired with any of the Groot Constantia Wines. Booking is recommended via [email protected].
Also read: Groot Constantia Sauvignon Blanc named best in world
Jonkershuis Restaurant will also be open on the day, serving their speciality Cape Malay food, a cuisine unique to the Western Cape. The spicy food is historical and preserved through ongoing tradition. Reservations are essential via [email protected].
For more information visit www.grootconstantia.co.za.
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Picture: Supplied