Over the last decade, Cape Town has forged a path for herself in the art world, officially becoming the nexus of contemporary African art. And while art and luxury have long been kindred spirits among aesthete-forward individuals, hotels are increasingly emerging as unexpected yet compelling canvases for cultural expression.
By spotlighting South African artists, these bespoke establishments create an authentic connection to the country’s soul, transforming hotels into more than just places to stay. They invite guests to see South Africa through the eyes of its artists – past and present – unearthing hidden narratives and incredible talent. As guests meander through corridors adorned with evocative paintings and textured, moody photographs, they become participants in a vital and ongoing creative dialogue.
Ellerman House
Poetically placed where the slopes of Lion’s Head meet the Atlantic Ocean in Bantry Bay, Ellerman House has one of the most representational private South African art collections in the world. It spans many facets of the lived South African experience, including the colonial period, apartheid, and the anti-apartheid movement, which was largely supported through the art community.
In-house art guides are available to take guests on private tours of the collection, spread throughout the house and a dedicated gallery space, fostering a deeper connection to a complex political and cultural history. Be sure to look out for works by award-winning Lady Skollie as well as pieces by internationally acclaimed pioneer artist Gerard Sekoto, contemporary artist William Kentridge, and modernist masters including J.H. Pierneef, Alexis Preller, and Irma Stern.
With more than 1 000 artworks, the Ellerman House collection represents over 200 years of South African history.
Discover more at ellermanhouse.co.za.
The Queen Victoria Hotel
Tucked away in the historic Portswood Ridge District of the iconic V&A Waterfront, the Queen Victoria Hotel possesses a unique collection of contemporary South African artworks in its public spaces. In their Terrarium Restaurant – the latest addition to the hotel’s fine dining options – a fusion of nature, art, and culinary innovation is on hand.
Local artist Klara-Marié den Heijer, known for her practice of handcrafting earthen pigments, sets the tone in her work Ploeter as you enter the space. This other-worldly contrasting landscape draws on the artist’s interest in the convention of landscape painting, and in so doing, presents questions of ownership and feelings of belonging, key issues in the contemporary South African narrative.
Curated by renowned gallerist Ilse Schermers, a space has been created where each artwork serves as an aesthetic yet tactile celebration of nature. A place where a momentary glance left reveals the allure of Table Mountain, seamlessly tied to the gallery-like space through art.
Look out for the textured wood carvings by Kobus la Grange from his Ask Not a Traveller How To Build a House series.
Discover more at newmarkhotels.com/accommodation/queen-victoria-hotel.
Le Grand Jardin
If you thought curated art collections were confined to the Mother City alone, a short drive to the vineyards of Stellenbosch reveals the winelands to be just as culturally relevant. At Le Grand Jardin – a Herbert Baker-style, private winelands villa – a world of whimsical wonder awaits. It’s an eclectic haven where opulent antiques, Persian rugs, and modern art converge in a vibrant celebration of beauty and whimsy.
With an art collection inspired by the owners’ passionate support of local art and design, there are many key pieces in this bespoke collection. One highlight is a triptych by Lionel Smit showcasing his signature Cape Malay portraits. The African pride and feminine energy captured by the artist are arresting upon first glance, as the artist navigates issues of hybrid identity within a South African context. A conversation starter for sure in the villa’s blue cocktail lounge.
While roaming the corridors of the villa, take time to appreciate the 1956 black-and-white photograph by Jürgen Schadeberg of musician Hugh Masekela holding a trumpet he was given by Louis Armstrong. Or one of the Gregoire Boonzaier works; the artist was an exponent of Cape Impressionism and founder of the New Group (a South African art movement that emerged in 1937 to challenge prevailing conservative artistic norms), who also contributed artistically to the struggle against apartheid.
