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Painter and sculptor Samurai Farai brings a new body of work to Origin Art, pulling on the threads of his heritage. The Africa Salon comes to Gallery 1 – with 12 artists on show and a jam-packed programme.
In a solo show at BKhz Gallery, Athi-Patra Ruga continues his legacy of myth-making as a contemporary response to South Africa's colonial history. Meanwhile, in the Atrium, little artists put on a big show with Pieces of Our Dream. Curious about the outcome of the Amex Jacaranda Art Challenge? From 17:30 there'll be live installation of the winning work outside of the Trumpet building, with an exhibition of the nine finalists.
As always, Keyes delivers when it comes to food and drinks. Head to Freshly Ground to sample their expanded menu, or try Kanpai, where the glam selfie crowd sips on good cocktails. Unwind with a view at Marble, or keep it easy with classic burgers at BGR. If something sweet is what you're after, Pantry is your go-to for affordable soft serve. Last but certainly not least, round the night off with live DJ sets at MIX Cocktail Bar.
Keep reading for the details.
Threads of heritage in Samurai Farai's solo
"With a deliberate homage to ancestral ties and a heartfelt celebration of hybridity, Farai bridges the ancient and the modern by channeling inspiration from historical African civilizations. His sculptures, crafted from Zimbabwean stone in reverence to Shona masterful sculpting traditions, breathe life into his paintings’ characters, embodying them in three-dimensional form," reads the curatorial statement.
Dispatches from Africa
"Collectively participating artists in the exhibition contribute to the shared vision of a borderless and prosperous post-colonial, democratic Africa – a future-focussed continent in confluence with the world, where dreams are not deferred in favour of survival, and creative possibility is expressed in our own words and image. [...] The curation, selection of works and artists facilitate unique insights into the true diversity and complexity of the African continent, and constitutes identifying as African in the contemporary moment," reads the exhibition text.
More than a group exhibition, The Africa Salon is brought to life by a special programme of art talks, music, and related events. See the line-up here.
Little artists with big dreams
The children visualised their aspirations and translated them into imaginative artworks, which are woven through with diverse stories of personal discovery and growth. A delight to see, alongside works by established artists Edward Selematsela (who founded the Little Artists School in 1995), Luwice Muziti, Lucas Kumba, Buhle Hlatshwayo, and more.
Athi-Patra Ruga's visionary solo Amadoda on the Verge…
Ruga's lone avatars appear to be on the verge of something curious and uncharted. The uneasiness of the "frontier", both as a physical and psychological limit, as well as a threshold for new opportunities, fascinates him. "The dark history of settler occupation and religious domination has inspired me to focus on the continued effects of disembodiment on the black male body," Ruga explains. "Using costume and craftsmanship, I want to create a remedy, an alternative to a history of loss and disassociation."
Kick-start your art collection
Discover masterpieces that won't break the bank with Unlocking Your Collection at Origin Art. There'll be quality art to suit every pocket across mediums and styles, with nothing over R5,000. In addition to the diverse collection on show, this is a chance to engage with the artists themselves and discover the stories behind the works that speak to you. There'll also be practical tips and tricks for beginning and growing your art collection. In the often intimidating world of art, Unlocking Your Collection is a deliberate step towards welcoming art lovers of all levels into the fold.
Where to eat and drink
While art is front and centre at Keyes Art Night, you certainly won't be leaving hungry given all that Keyes has to offer on the dining front. Enjoy beautifully crafted sushi at the Japanese-fusion restaurant Kanpai or giant tiger prawns on the hibachi grill at The Prawnery. Book via Dineplan. Freshly Ground has an expanded menu and now serves drinks. For a tried and true favourite, add tasty Asian street food to the line-up at Momo Kuro on the top floor of the Trumpet building, or try the ramen at Momo's street-level store. Burger and fries? Keep it easy at BGR. Unwind with sunset drinks at Marble (also in the swanky Trumpet building) and if soft serve is your thing, head down the parking lot stairs to The Pantry. At just 18 bucks a pop, you'll be glad we told you.
Easy beats at MIX Cocktail Bar
Once you've caught up with all the Keyes art offerings, head upstairs to MIX Cocktail Bar at MESH Club for something to sip on along with DJs on deck.
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