Experience the vibrant art and culture scene of the city this September with First Thursdays. As Cape Town comes alive with creativity, First Thursdays offers a dynamic platform for artists, galleries and cultural spaces to showcase their talent and engage with the public.
Each first Thursday of the month, art enthusiasts and curious individuals gather to explore a diverse range of exhibitions, performances and events across the city.
See what’s on this September:
DAOR Contemporary
DAOR Contemporary, near the trendy Silo District and Zeitz MOCAA, is a testament to art’s transformative power. Housed in a lovingly restored industrial building, this gallery is a haven for contemporary African artists.
They specialise in showcasing South African and Pan African art, with a keen eye for both mid-career and emerging talents, spanning various artistic disciplines.
DAOR proudly features an impressive collection of print works from Warren Editions and Creative Blocks from the Spier Arts Trust. Don’t miss the exciting opening of Elmarie Van Straten’s solo exhibition, ‘Neither Here Nor There,’ at DAOR Contemporary.
- Location: Coode Crescent, Port of Cape Town, South Arm entrance / across from Silo District
- Times: 6pm to 8:30pm
- Website: daor.co.za
196 Victoria Gallery
196 Victoria is a space in Cape Town designed to be a collaborative haven for holistic healthcare practitioners, artists and visionary small businesses. This unique environment fosters a sense of community and shared interests. As part of First Thursdays, they are delighted to present ‘There’s Always Something In Between,’ an exhibition by Zach Zono.
Through his artwork, Zono delves into his personal practice, exploring fragmented memories and the human tendency to embellish them when revisiting the past. Join them for the exhibition’s opening this Thursday and immerse yourself in Zono’s captivating artistic journey.
- Location: 196 Victoria Road, Woodstock
- Times: 5pm to 9pm
- Website: 196victoria.com
Association for Visual Arts
The AVA, a dedicated non-profit arts organisation, is committed to advancing and showcasing contemporary South African art and artists. They curate their exhibitions through an annual open call, ensuring a diverse and inclusive programme.
Presenting ‘NEXXUS,’ a collaborative exploration featuring poets, visual artists, musicians, a composer and an architect, the AVA offers a unique platform where creative minds converge. ‘NEXXUS’ takes its name from the profound connections forged between these artists, extending to their art and its influence on space and human interaction.
In a world grappling with environmental challenges, ‘NEXXUS’ challenges established narratives by fusing diverse art forms, fostering dialogue and exploring the possibility of reconstructing cultural fractures into imaginative opportunities.
Experience ‘NEXXUS’ through captivating performances and thought-provoking conversations, embracing the power of multicultural connectivity and unity.
- Location: 35 Church Street, CBD
- Times: 5pm to 8pm
- Website: ava.co.za
Always Welcome
Always Welcome, the esteemed multi-brand cooperative retailer showcasing Southern Africa’s foremost designer-maker furniture and homeware studios, is proud to announce the grand launch of their freshly refurbished Gift Store, situated on the ground floor of their Cape Town showroom.
This exciting event promises to be a delightful exploration of unique and tasteful gifts that reflect the region’s rich design heritage. Join Always Welcome for an exclusive unveiling of their revamped Gift Store, where creativity meets craftsmanship in every carefully curated item.
- Location: 108 Shortmarket Street, CBD
- Times: 5pm to 8pm
- Website: alwayswelcome.store
Union House
Discover the captivating world of portraiture at Spier Arts Trust’s ‘PORTRAIT 100’ exhibition, a prestigious showcase of 60 remarkable artworks selected from the esteemed National Portrait Award competition. With 850 entrants, this biennial competition, now in its sixth year, witnessed fierce creativity and talent.
An adjudication panel comprised of renowned educators and artists, including Elizabeth Gunter, Paul Emsley and Rose Kirumira, painstakingly chose these 60 pieces to grace Union House.
These portraits stand as a testament to the vibrant and diverse contemporary portraiture scene in South Africa. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in this extraordinary exhibition celebrating the power and depth of portraiture.
- Location: Union House, 25 Commercial Street, East City (off Plein Street)
- Times: 5pm to 7pm
- Website: spierartstrust.co.za
Nel
Experience the fascinating world of self-observation and the intricacies of the gaze in Hentie Van Der Merwe’s ‘Shooting Selves II’ at Nel Gallery. This captivating exhibition is the artist’s second solo at Nel Gallery and builds upon the concepts explored in his inaugural show.
Van Der Merwe delves into the act of self-observation, particularly the gaze directed at oneself through the lens of a cell phone camera, meant for public consumption via the internet. These new works are informed by a collection of theories, including Lacan’s ‘mirror stage’ and bell hooks’ ‘oppositional gaze.’
The gaze takes centre stage in this body of work, serving as an act of rebellion, assertion and submission, while also exploring its complex relationship with power and pleasure.
- Location: 117 Long Street, CBD
- Times: 5pm to 8pm
Central Methodist Mission
Central Methodist Mission is a historic city church with a legacy of protest and protection dating back to apartheid. Head there for a thought-provoking theatre show, ‘My Fellow South Africans,’ by Mike van Graan, featuring Kim Blanche Adonis.
This multi-sketch satirical commentary on contemporary South Africa offers a unique blend of deadly seriousness and side-splitting humour. The show promises to be an engaging exploration of the complexities of our nation today. Admission is free.
- Location: 151 Longmarket Street, Greenmarket Square, CBD
- Times: 8pm to 9pm
- Website: cmm.org.za
99 Loop Gallery
Embrace the arrival of spring with a visit to 99 Loop Gallery. From 2 to 23 September, the gallery presents two captivating solo exhibitions. Downstairs, Heidi Fourie’s ‘Glimmering Beneath’ showcases her mesmerising oil paintings, while upstairs, Robert Hamblin’s ‘Strange Bright Blooms’ offers a unique perspective through his paintings.
Although distinct in style and theme, both exhibitions delve into the intricate relationship between nature and the human body. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore these thought-provoking displays of contemporary art.
- Location: Cnr Loop and Church, CBD
- Times: 5pm to 8pm
- Website: 99loop.co.za
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Teddy’s Room
Explore Cape Malay heritage through the captivating art exhibition ‘TULIS,’ presented by Our Cape Town Heritage (OCTH). This immersive experience showcases the talents of Islamic artists Shaheen Soni and Shafeeqa Effendi, whose fine art eloquently narrates stories of hope, tranquility, faith and identity.
The word ‘Tulis,’ meaning ‘to write’ in Malay, takes on a deeper meaning, delving into Cape Malay culture, Islamic art and calligraphy. Explore how Arabic script and the pen have been instrumental in preserving traditions, fostering hope and forging identity.
- Location: 7 Milner Road, Woodstock
- Times: 7pm to 10pm
- Website: instagram.com/ourcapetownheritage
Openwine
Experience the mesmerising abstract art of Sibusiso Ngwazi at Openwine. His creations, deeply rooted in figuration yet imbued with unbridled spirituality, invite you into a world of poetic abstraction. Ngwazi’s comfort with imperfection, raw emotions and spiritual essence shines through every bold stroke, crafting a unique artistic experience.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore his compelling exhibition, a fusion of mastery and introspection, at Openwine – a hub for South African wine enthusiasts and art lovers alike.
- Location: 72 Wale Street, CBD
- Times: 5pm to 11pm
- Website: instagram.com/openwine_za
MOCHI MOCHI Japanese Café
Discover the enchanting world of analog photography at Mochi Mochi’s ‘For The Love Of Film’ exhibition this First Thursdays. Celebrating the captivating work of talented local photographers like Melinda Knoesen, Chenai Gwandure, David Shiffman and Rowan Patrick, this exhibit promises a visual feast.
While you explore their prints, savour the delectable mochi truffles, sweet treats and savoury bites that Mochi Mochi is renowned for. And if you’re in the mood for some spirited libations, don’t miss their limited menu of alcoholic drinks, including the enticing whisky matcha lemonade.
- Location: 71 Buitengracht Street, CBD
- Times: 6pm to 9pm
- Website: mochimochi.co.za
6 Spin Street Restaurant Gallery
Experience the captivating exhibition ‘The Spirit of Ginga’ by Yanga ‘COOLG’ Lingani at 6 Spin Street. This showcase explores Ginga as a means to preserve spirituality and culture, with Yanga Lingani’s encounter with Ginga in 2020 serving as a transformative moment. Through contemporary art, he mends his spirit and defends his dreams and talents.
The exhibition, curated by Khanyisa Ndonga, opens its doors to First Thursday viewers on 7 September, with the official opening ceremony on Saturday, 9 September, at 2pm. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness Yanga Lingani’s extraordinary artistry, as the exhibition will be on display until 30 September.
- Location: 6 Spin Street, Church Square
- Times: 5pm to 9pm
- Website: 6spinstreet.co.za
Gracht Gallery
Step into the world of ceramic art at Gracht, where the ‘Piece Unique II’ exhibition awaits. Curated by Karen Scott, this group exhibition showcases the creative talents of Gracht Studio’s members, offering a glimpse into the world of recreational ceramic art.
Featuring works by artists like Albane Psaume, Aymone du Toit, Brenda Louw and more, this exhibition is the second installment in a series of biannual studio exhibitions at Gracht Gallery. ‘Piece Unique II’ will run from 7 September to 20 October 20th, 2023.
- Location: 160 Buitengracht Street, Bo-Kaap
- Times: 5pm to 8pm
- Website: gracht.co.za
WORLDART
Experience the fusion of traditional art and cutting-edge technology at WORLDART’s latest exhibition, ‘No change. Take Chappies.’ Artist Adilson de Oliveira presents a captivating collection of sketches that have been digitally edited, printed and collaged onto board.
What makes this exhibition truly unique is the Augmented Reality element. When you view the artwork through the Artivive app (available on both iOS and Android), it comes to life with video animations, creating an immersive and dynamic art experience.
- Location: 54 Church Street, CBD
- Times: 5pm to 8pm
- Website: worldart.co.za
Eclectica Contemporary
Explore the enchanting world of contemporary art at Eclectica Contemporary’s ‘Incantations’ group exhibition. This captivating showcase features talented women and non-binary artists who employ incantations as a methodology within their diverse practices.
Each artist disrupts conventional representations of the female and queer body, challenging societal norms and inviting viewers to reimagine, re-describe and reinvent themselves. This exhibition promises to be a thought-provoking and liberatory experience, showcasing the power of art to challenge and transform.
- Location: 56 Church Street, CBD
- Times: 5pm to 8pm
- Website: eclecticacontemporary.co.za
Alliance Française du Cap
Discover the captivating world of artist Sandra Hanekom at the Alliance Française du Cap’s ‘FLOTSAM’ exhibition. This collection of artworks is a testament to the artist’s insatiable imagination and the irresistible need to create.
Each piece is a visual narration, often written in a symbology without rhyme or reason, offering viewers a unique and thought-provoking experience.
Hanekom’s work is deeply rooted in the female experience, using mediums and materials historically associated with women to explore themes of nurture, indulgence and cherishing.
- Location: 155 Loop Street, CBD
- Times: 6pm to 8:30pm
- Website: afcapetown.co.za
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Mullers Gallery
Check out ‘Shape and Form’ at Mullers Gallery. Established in 2015 to celebrate Mullers’ 125th Anniversary in Optometry, this gallery serves as a bridge between vision, eye car, and art. The exhibition features the work of talented artists Kate Schärf, Dayna Gay Tate and Tiffany Onderstall.
It’s a testament to the gallery’s commitment to providing a space for both young, up-and-coming artists and established creators to exhibit and sell their work.
- Location: 104 Longmarket Street, CBD
- Times: 5pm to 8pm
- Website: mullers.co.za
EBONY/Curated
Embark on a journey of self-discovery with the ‘Hiatus’ group exhibition at EBONY/CURATED. Established in 2007 and renowned for showcasing talent from Africa and the African Diaspora, this leading South African gallery offers a space where artists explore the interplay between self-expression and societal expectations.
‘Hiatus’ invites you to contemplate the complexities of social identity and the tension between personal identity and public performance. It’s a celebration of embracing your distinct identity while challenging the limitations imposed by society.
- Location: 67 Loop Street, CBD
- Times: 5pm to 8pm
- Website: ebonycurated.com
The Cape Gallery
Experience the captivating interplay of light and landscape in Robert Koch’s solo exhibition at The Cape Gallery. Through his mastery of chiaroscuro, Robert brings the African wilderness to life, allowing viewers to feel the rain, smell the dust on a hot day, or sense the sea’s mist on a morning breeze.
His impressionistic paintings possess a cinematic quality, immersing you in the immediacy of the African experience. Drawing on his childhood spent accompanying his painter father on bush excursions, Robert’s work captures the ever-changing beauty of the African terrain, from lush, rain-soaked velds to the drama of distant storms.
- Location: 60 Church Street, CBD
- Times: 4pm to 7pm
- Website: capegallery.co.za
Sisonke Gallery
Discover an extraordinary exploration of identity and culture in Meshack Shakes Tembani’s ‘The Swag Series’ at Sisonke Gallery, housed within the Cape Heritage Hotel.
Through vivid colors, emotive strokes and cultural symbols, Tembani’s art celebrates the charisma and confidence of individuals, creating a vibrant world that mirrors South Africa’s rich cultural tapestry.
This exhibition not only highlights the diversity of South African culture but also encourages viewers to embrace their unique identities, recognising the inherent worth within each person. ‘The Swag Series’ is a powerful experience that will ignite conversations about self-confidence, diversity and the transformative capacity of art.
- Location: 90 Bree Street, Cnr Bree and Shortmarket, CBD
- Times: 5pm to 10pm
- Website: capeheritage.co.za
Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room
Clarke’s, the beloved Bree Street institution, is not just known for its all-day breakfasts, iconic cheeseburger and classic cocktails; it’s now powered by the sun, ensuring you can enjoy your favourite dishes and drinks without any interruptions – even during loadshedding.
- Location: 133 Bree Street, CBD
- Times: 7am to 10pm
- Website: clarkesdining.co.za
Tjing Tjing House
Tjing Tjing House is a captivating three-story destination offering diverse experiences. On the ground floor, you’ll find Tjing Tjing Torii, where Japanese street food takes centre stage. Venture upstairs to the Tjing Tjing Rooftop bar for expertly crafted cocktails and the pulse of electro-indie beats, all set against a stunning backdrop.
- Location: 165 Longmarket Street, CBD
- Times: 4pm til late
- Website: tjingtjing.co.za
The Gin Bar
The Gin Bar, a hidden gem accessed through a quaint chocolate café and nestled within a delightful courtyard, is a true institution now in its 7th year.
Boasting an extensive menu featuring over 140 different gins, it remains the go-to spot for the finest gin cocktails in town. For those not inclined towards gin, there’s also a well-curated selection of wines and beers on tap.
- Location: 64A Wale Street, CBD
- Times: 5pm to 2am
- Website: theginbar.co.za
The Drinkery
The Drinkery is a unique blend of a cocktail bar and an art gallery, offering a cosy and contemporary speakeasy experience. Its standout feature is a fantastic terrace that provides a picturesque view of the historic Heritage Square courtyard, making it an ideal spot.
- Location: Mezzanine level, Heritage Square, 100 Shortmarket Street, CBD
- Times: 4pm til late
- Website: instagram.com/thedrinkeryza
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Harrington Street
Experience the vibrant trilogy of Harrington Street, where Harringtons, District and Surfa Rosa come together to create an exciting atmosphere.
Even as winter’s chill lingers, Harrington Street offers a warm and lively array of events that you won’t want to miss. Harringtons, District and Surfa Rosa are all set to come alive, ensuring there’s never a dull moment on Harrington Street.
- Location: 61 Harringston Street, East City, CBD
- Times: 4pm to 4am
- Website: instagram.com/harringtonsct
Culture Wine Bar
Culture Wine Bar beckons wine enthusiasts with its thoughtfully curated selection of exceptional wines. Explore a diverse array that includes wines from South Africa’s renowned producers, sought-after cult classics, undiscovered treasures, natural wines and special imports sourced from around the world.
- Location: 103 Bree Street, CBD
- Times: 6pm to 11pm
- Website: culturewinebar.com/home
Nish Nush
‘No fuss, just fantastic shawarma.’ At Nish Nush, Middle Eastern street food takes centre stage, served with a generous helping of vibrant energy. Offering quick, flavourful and spirited dishes, Nish Nush is renowned for being the ultimate destination for Cape Town’s finest falafel and other Middle Eastern favourites.
- Location: 100 Bree Street, CBD
- Times: 11am to 9pm
- Website: nishnush.co.za
The Athletic Club and Social
Nestled within a charming three-story Victorian spot, this establishment offers a delightful blend of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, top-notch cocktails, an enviable array of whiskies and gins, the melodic tunes of vinyl DJs and the soulful rhythms of live jazz performances.
- Location: 35 Buitengracht Street, CBD
- Times: 12pm to 10pm
Ouzeri
At Ouzeri, you’ll savour modern twists on time-honoured, regional dishes from Cyprus and Greece. Their menu showcases the finest seasonal ingredients, thoughtfully curated from local producers and pairs them harmoniously with a selection of exceptional wines.
- Location: 58 Wale Street, CBD
- Times: 6pm to 9:30pm
- Website: ouzeri.co.za
The House of Machines
THoM is your go-to ‘good times, great memories’ gathering spot for a vibrant community. With a killer cocktail lineup and a knack for hosting awesome live music gigs, it’s the perfect place to create unforgettable moments with friends.
- Location: 84 Shortmarket Street, CBD
- Times: 7am to 2am
- Website: thehouseofmachines.com
Ramenhead
Ramenhead, brought to you by the talented team behind FYN (ranking #37 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list), is a no-nonsense ramen haven that approaches its craft with utmost dedication. T
he noodles are handcrafted on the premises, and because excellence takes time, guests are admitted in limited numbers every half hour to guarantee you savour the finest bowl of ramen possible.
- Location: 37 Parliament Street, Church Square, CBD
- Times: 6pm to 9pm
- Website: ramenhead.co.za
Leo’s Wine Bar
Leo’s is an extraordinary fusion of a wine bar tucked within a bagel shop. Here, they proudly pour low-intervention wines sourced from boutique producers, with a robust offering of natural wines that are ever at your disposal. It’s a unique blend of flavours and ambiance that’s sure to elevate your wine and dining experience.
- Location: 120 Bree Street, CBD
- Times: 5pm to 11pm
- Website: leoswinebar.com
The Pink Room at Gorgeous George
Experience the epitome of urban luxury at Gorgeous George, a meticulously restored heritage hotel seamlessly blending two historic buildings. Nestled on the first floor is The Pink Room, an art and music haven that comes alive on First Thursdays. Dive into a world of creativity and culture as you explore its regular exhibitions and vibrant music events.
- Location: 118 St George’s Mall (Between Church + Longmarket), CBD
- Times: 5pm to 11pm
- Website: gorgeousgeorge.co.za
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