As the weather slowly cools down, it’s time again to embrace the lively and vibrant atmosphere of First Thursdays.
This monthly event sees the city’s art galleries, museums and cultural institutions open their doors for free after-hours exhibitions and events.
May’s First Thursday promises to be an exciting one, with a range of new exhibitions, live music and performances to explore. So grab your friends and head out for a night of culture and creativity in the heart of the Mother City.
Here’s what’s on:
99 Loop Gallery
First Thursdays is set to showcase some exciting exhibitions at 99 Loop Gallery. The contemporary art space, which prioritises collaboration with both established and emerging local talent, is currently hosting two exhibitions.
The first is a solo presentation by Carolina Salinas titled ‘Repose’, featuring new paintings by the artist, which explore the beauty and tranquility found in moments of rest.
The second exhibition is a group show focused on abstraction curated by Katherine Bull, titled ‘Elemental.’ The exhibition features works by several talented artists, including Gabrielle Raaff, Olivia Botha, and Sisonke Papu, among others.
- Location: 99 Loop St, City Centre
- Opening times: 4pm to 6pm
- Website: 99loop.co.za
Alliance Française du Cap
Alliance Française du Cap is a hub for sharing French language and culture, and supporting local talent. This May, the cultural center is hosting an exhibition titled ‘No Halos No Crowns’ by Shui-lyn White and Kevan Moses.
The exhibition invites us to reflect on a world without judgement or hierarchy and consider the damage inflicted by beliefs and ideas that create and support social systems based on moral right to power.
‘No Halos No Crowns’ highlights the impact of hierarchies, belief in belonging and their effect on the development of individual potential and freedom.
- Location: 155 Loop Street, City Centre
- Opening times: 6pm to 9pm
- Website: afcapetown.co.za
Association for Visual Arts
The AVA Gallery, a non-profit, membership-based art organisation, is committed to the advancement of visual art. This May, the gallery presents ‘WILD MIND’ by Jess Sutherland, an exhibition that invites visitors to explore a different mode of seeing – one that recognises the inter and intra aspects of our existence.
Through her work, Sutherland questions our perception of ourselves as something “other-than-wild” and reminds us of the wound caused by our illusion of separateness.
The AVA Gallery is also showcasing other exhibitions, including ‘UNMOURNED BODIES’ curated by Jo Rogge, Imameleng Masitha’s ‘Lilahloane’, and ‘Inside Pieces’ by Jean-Marie Malan and Guy Simpson.
- Location: 35 Church Street, City Centre
- Opening times: 5pm to 8pm
- Website: ava.co.za
The Cape Gallery
Located in the heart of the city, The Cape Gallery showcases some of the oldest and prestigious galleries, antique shops and auction houses in Cape Town.
The gallery’s clients favour a conservative approach that describes the topography, flora and fauna of the land, which has been a tradition in South African painting for centuries. Recently, the emergence of vibrant street art has added an essentially African character to the work on display.
Currently on exhibition is ‘The Art of Living Graciously’ by Frederike Stokhuyzen. Her unique vision, innate creativity and careful observation have established her as an esteemed artist, having participated in prestigious group exhibitions in South Africa and abroad.
- Location: 60 Church Street, City Centre
- Opening times: 9:30am to 7pm
- Website: capegallery.co.za
Cape Institute for Architecture
The Cape Institute for Architecture is currently showcasing a retrospective exhibition titled “PRACTICE: 110 Years of Making Buildings” by KMH Architects.
The exhibition features work that spans over a century and aims to celebrate the past while also looking towards the future, and showcases recently completed work to offer visitors a glimpse into the practice of architecture.
As a venue that hosts regular exhibitions related to architecture and urbanism, the Cape Institute for Architecture provides a unique opportunity for architects and enthusiasts to engage with the industry and academia.
- Location: 71 Hout Street
- Opening times: 7am to 8pm
- Website: cifa.org.za
Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room
Located in the heart of Bree Street, this much-loved establishment is a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike.
The venue is famous for its all-day breakfasts, which are a staple for many Cape Town residents, as well as its delicious cheeseburgers and classic cocktails.
Whether you are looking for a hearty brunch or a night out with friends, this Bree Street institution is sure to hit the spot.
- Location: 133 Bree Street
- Opening times: 7am to 10pm
- Website: clarkesdining.co.za
Col’Cacchio Foreshore
Col’Cacchio Pizzeria Foreshore is the perfect spot for food and music lovers this First Thursday. You can enjoy a delectable menu of Italian-inspired meals made with the freshest ingredients and stick around for Thirsty Thursday with DJ Meek.
Known for her exceptional sets that showcase a mix of indie dance, dark disco and retro house music, DJ Meek will take you on a journey with her persuasive sounds.
Indulge in Col’Cacchio’s delicious gourmet pizzas, pastas and salads, along with their refreshing cocktails and beers, and enjoy a night of good vibes and great music.
- Location: North Wharf Building, Lower Bree Street, City Centre
- Opening times: 12pm to 10pm
- Website: colcacchio.co.za
The Drinkery
The Drinkery is a popular spot, combining the ambiance of a contemporary speakeasy with an art gallery.
The venue is known for its carefully crafted cocktails and a fantastic terrace that overlooks the charming Heritage Square courtyard, providing an ideal setting to enjoy drinks with friends or a special someone.
The interior is stylish and comfortable, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day or to kick off a night out on the town. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail or something more adventurous, The Drinkery is sure to impress.
- Location: Mezzanine level, Heritage Square, 100 Shortmarket Street, City Centre
- Opening times: 4pm til late
- Website: instagram.com/thedrinkeryza
Also read: Cape Town’s vibrant LGBTQ-friendly nightlife scene: Top spots to check out
EBONY/Curated
EBONY/CURATED is a contemporary and modern art gallery that showcases emerging and established artists from the African continent.
The gallery participates in international fairs and represents a core group of talented artists. Currently on display is the ‘Room With a View’ group exhibition, curated by Karen Elkington.
The exhibition explores the concept of the ‘room’ or ‘interior’ as a means of expressing ideas and exploring concerns. Visitors can view works by artists such as Thirza Schaap, Raymond Fuyana and Oliver Scarlin.
- Location: 67 Loop Street, City Centre
- Opening times: 6pm to 8pm
- Website: ebonycurated.com
Eclectica Contemporary
Eclectica Contemporary, an African gallery with an international vision, showcases carefully selected and focused collections of contemporary and modern art from the continent.
The gallery’s program of exhibitions features solo shows by gallery artists and curated group shows, alongside facilities for experimental, new media and project-based works. Eclectica Contemporary is currently presenting Mpho Feni’s first solo exhibition titled Chulumanco, which explores the merit of joyful emotions and portrays figures in close-knit formation.
Feni’s paintings celebrate family gatherings, traditional events and birthdays, emphasising the values of love, unity, and support. Through his work, Feni embraces positivity and care, inviting viewers to pay homage to celebratory moments.
- Location: 56 Church Street
- Opening times: 5pm to 8pm
- Website: eclecticacontemporary.co.za
G-Squared Gallery
G-Squared Gallery, a contemporary art gallery in Cape Town’s CBD, is showcasing the latest exhibition by artist Gerhard van der Westhuizen, titled ‘Fashion Runway’.
The exhibition features a collection of oil paintings and resin sculptures inspired by the late fashion designer Alexander McQueen. Gerhard’s work combines modern art with abstract expressionism, featuring abstract faces with intense emotions and a range of fashion runway figures.
The artist’s unique collaborative pieces with sculptor Mambakwetza Mutasa “Mamba” push the boundaries between painting and sculpture, by fusing oil paintings with elements of steel.
- Location: First floor, 37 Church Street, City Centre
- Opening times: 5pm to 9pm
- Website: gerhardvdw.com
Gallery One11
GalleryOne11, located on Loop Street, aims to encourage community engagement and participation with their carefully curated exhibitions.
The intimate gallery provides a platform for emerging artists to showcase their work and connect with new audiences. The current exhibition, ‘Advent of the Emergent’, is a group exhibition presented in collaboration with The Exhibit Co.
It showcases how young artists are using their work as a tool to challenge socio-economic and socio-political issues in today’s society. The exhibition invites visitors to engage with the artwork and contemplate the issues at hand.
- Location: First floor, Gallery One11, 111 Loop Street, City Centre
- Opening times: 6pm to 10pm
- Website: galleryone11.com
The Gin Bar
For those seeking a unique and exclusive drinking experience, The Gin Bar in Cape Town is a must-visit destination. Hidden in a beautiful courtyard, the entrance to the bar is through a chocolate café, adding to the sense of intrigue and adventure.
Now in its 7th year, the bar has earned a reputation as a premier destination for gin lovers with over 140 different gins on their menu.
Even non-gin-drinkers will find something to enjoy with their selection of wine and beer on tap. Sip on some of the best gin cocktails in town and take in the intimate and cozy atmosphere that The Gin Bar has to offer.
- Location: 64A Wale Street, City Centre
- Opening times: 5pm to 2am
- Website: theginbar.co.za
GRACHT GALLERY
GRACHT, a cabinet gallery located in Bo-Kaap, is currently showcasing the exhibition ‘Accidental Happiness’ by Eliza de Villiers. The exhibition celebrates the beauty of unexpected colours and spontaneous shapes in contemporary ceramics.
Each piece is unique and playful, with a sense of joy and wonder that invites viewers to embrace their inner child. The shapes suggest movement and energy, while the mixing of glazes and firing process result in a one-of-a-kind combination of colours.
Whether functional or decorative, each piece showcases the creative mind and artistic vision of the potter. Visit GRACHT to experience the magic of ‘Accidental Happiness’ for yourself.
- Location: 160 Buitengracht Street, Bo-Kaap
- Opening times: 5pm to 8pm
- Website: gracht.co.za
Holland House Atelier
K2MK Architecture and Interior Design has opened a new exhibition space on the bustling Church Street gallery strip. The space is available for short and long term rentals, and currently hosts an exhibition by Art Gazette for First Thursdays.
The exhibition presents a collection of accessible contemporary artworks from Art Gazette’s curated platform of international contemporary fine art.
In addition, the exhibition features ceramics by Han Ceramics, and furniture by Ben Kennedy Design, hoop and Pedersen + Lennard. Art Gazette aims to support artists’ practices while making original contemporary fine art available to a larger audience, and currently works with over 600 artists from more than 30 countries.
- Location: 76 Church Street, City Centre
- Opening times: 5pm to 8pm
- Website: instagram.com/art_gazette
MOCHI MOCHI Japanese Café
Mochi Mochi, a popular Japanese bakery, has found a new home in Cape Town where it continues to offer its customers a unique and playful Japanese food experience.
The café features a menu of squishy and delicious Japanese milk bread treats, including its signature mochi balls which are filled with various sweet and savoury fillings.
While adding a South African twist to their offerings, Mochi Mochi still maintains an understanding and respect for the traditional and authentic Japanese cuisine. The cozy and welcoming atmosphere of the café makes it an ideal spot to enjoy a delightful treat and experience a little bit of Japanese culture in the heart of Cape Town.
- Location: 71 Buitengracht Street, City Centre
- Opening times: 5pm to 9pm
- Website: mochimochi.co.za
Mullers Gallery
Mullers Gallery, located on the first floor of Mullers Optometrists, is a unique space that combines eye care and visual arts. Established in 2015 to celebrate Mullers 125th Anniversary in Optometry, the gallery serves a dual purpose as a waiting area for patients and an exhibition space for artists.
Currently on display is ‘Natalensis’ by Kate Schärf, whose work is inspired by plants and gardens. The paintings aim to evoke the calming and reassuring qualities of nature through soothing colours and harmonious compositions.
Schärf’s work invites viewers to engage in quiet contemplation and admire the intricacies of organic structures.
- Location: 104 Longmarket Street
- Opening times: 5pm to 8:30pm
- Website: mullers.co.za/the-muller-gallery
Also read: Artists currently exhibiting at Cape Town’s Zeitz MOCAA
Nel
Nel Gallery, situated on the corner of Long and Church Streets, is hosting two solo exhibitions for First Thursdays. The first exhibition, ‘Unbearable Heroes’, by Bonita Alice explores our relationship with animals and the imbalance that has occurred.
The second exhibition, ‘surrender’ by Arlene Amaler-Raviv, refreshes her body of work as she paints instinctively, allowing the process of painting itself to lead the work.
Nel Gallery usually hosts an ongoing group hang of mostly local artists, as well as solo and two-person exhibitions throughout the year.
- Location: 117 Long Street, City Centre
- Opening times: 10am to 8pm
The Pink Room at Gorgeous George
Gorgeous George, the stunning hotel created from two beautifully restored heritage buildings connected by a rooftop bar, is hosting an art exhibition for First Thursdays at The Pink Room.
The exhibition showcases the works of Joel Mamboka, Romi Flowers, Kazi Musik, and Mthetho Sono. Guests can enjoy the art while listening to music by Cheslin Pick and Best Friend.
As the first to join the Design Hotels stable, Gorgeous George is a design-forward and culturally rooted hotel that offers a unique and memorable experience for guests.
- Location: 118 St George’s Mall
- Opening times: 5pm to 11pm
- Website: gorgeousgeorge.co.za
PUMA Select
PUMA Select invites visitors to join them for their exclusive monthly event, Select Sessions, at their new store located on the corner of Loop and Waterkant Street.
The event promises a night of top-notch live entertainment and offers visitors exclusive access to limited edition product releases.
Select Sessions is hosted every First Thursdays and offers a one-of-a-kind experience for PUMA fans and those looking for an unforgettable night out.
- Location: 32 Loop Street, City Centre
- Opening times: 4pm to 9pm
- Website: instagram.com/pumasouthafrica
Sisonke Gallery
Sisonke Gallery, connected to the Cape Heritage Hotel, provides a platform for young and upcoming artists to showcase their work.
As part of their mission to uplift these artists, they are hosting the Red Bull Doodle Art National Finals, which invites students and creatives to express themselves through imaginative doodles.
Join Red Bull at Sisonke Gallery for a night of creativity and artistic expression.
- Location: 90 Bree Street, Cnr Bree and Shortmarket, City Centre
- Opening times: 4pm to 11pm
- Website: capeheritage.co.za
THK Gallery
Located in the heart of Cape Town, this contemporary art gallery offers a vibrant space for local artists to showcase their work.
In addition to featuring exhibitions by emerging and established South African artists, the gallery also offers a selection of art books from renowned publisher Taschen.
Currently on exhibition is ‘House of Fran’ by Guy Simpson, an artist who explores the beauty in the everyday objects that are often taken for granted. Through his use of wall paint, acrylic, and graphite, Simpson presents a unique perspective on these mundane objects and highlights their overlooked beauty.
- Location: 52 Waterkant Street, City Centre
- Opening times: 6pm to 8pm
- Website: thkgallery.com
Tjing Tjing House
Located in the city centre, Tjing Tjing House is a trendy establishment with plenty to offer.
The multi-level venue includes a Japanese street food restaurant, Tjing Tjing Torii, on the ground floor, while the Tjing Tjing Rooftop bar can be found upstairs.
The rooftop bar is known for its impressive cocktail selection and a vibrant atmosphere with electro-indie beats. Whether you’re in the mood for a tasty meal or a night out with friends, Tjing Tjing House is definitely worth a visit.
- Location: 165 Longmarket Street, City Centre
- Opening times: 12pm til late
- Website: tjingtjing.co.za
Under Projects
Join the Under the Pavement project space for their latest exhibition, ‘Paintings of Horses’, featuring works by invited artists and friends who explore the theme of horses through the medium of painting.
This non-commercial art space is dedicated to promoting conceptual and collaborative art practices, and is community-funded.
Following on from their successful ‘Sculptures of Cars’ exhibition in 2022, this prompt-based show aims to capture the essence of horses and reveal their potentialities. Come and explore the creative possibilities of horses through the eyes of talented artists.
- Location: 79 Roeland Street, Gardens
- Opening times: 6pm to 8pm
- Website: instagram.com/under.projects
Union House
Located at Union House, the Spier Arts Trust is a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting and promoting the arts in South Africa.
By recognising the cultural significance of art to the country’s creative economy, the trust works towards enabling artists to express themselves freely and build successful careers, while also fostering social transformation through art.
Through its programs and initiatives, the Spier Arts Trust is committed to making a meaningful impact on the lives of artists and the wider community.
- Location: 25 Commercial Street, City Centre
- Opening times: 5pm to 7pm
- Website: spierartstrust.co.za
Worldart
WORLDART, a prominent contemporary art gallery, specialises in urban and pop art with a focus on showcasing local and international talent.
Established in 2004, the gallery manages and markets a diverse range of contemporary South African artists and their work. In addition to its intimate gallery space in the CBD, WORLDART hosts exhibitions in various venues across the country and assists clients in sourcing quality art for corporate and private collections.
Currently, the gallery is presenting Qeren Creates’ ‘Organised Anarchy,’ an exhibition exploring the relationship between organization and anarchy in urban environments, and Buhle Nkalashe’s ‘Legacy,’ which delves into the evolution of African cultural expression.
- Location: 54 Church Street
- Opening times: 5pm to 8pm
- Website: worldart.co.za
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Picture: First Thursdays
