This three-day celebration of the arts sees the local artists of the Riebeek Valley opening their homes to visitors.
Perched on a mountainside, with olive groves and vineyards dotted around, Riebeek Valley is a hidden treasure – majestically beautiful without being touristy.
Its scenic seclusion has made it somewhat of a haven for artists, with many of South Africa’s celebrated talents finding residence here. It’s no wonder the region has been nicknamed “Arts Town” – a moniker it lives up to each year when the annual Solo Studios event rolls into the twin towns of Riebeek Kasteel and Riebeek West.
About Solo Studios: Intimate Art Encounters
From 11 to 13 December 2020, local artists will open their studios to art lovers and aficionados, allowing them into their private workspaces, and offering them an insight into their creative processes. Art collectors and the general public will have an opportunity to purchase pieces from the artists directly.
Other activities include avant-garde theatre performances from actor Marcel van Heerden and friends, performance poet Donker Jonker and The Mirrorsister, as well as live music.
Foodies will have plenty to tickle their taste buds with the Solo Kitchens canapé-and-wine-pairing events in the homes of some of the best local chefs, and The Art of Wine tasting event hosted by a select number of award-winning Swartland wine estates.
There are three ticket tiers:
- Premier weekend pass (R395) includes all studios, galleries and exhibitions, guided walkabouts and an invitation to the official opening cocktail event
- Weekend pass (R295) Includes all studios, galleries and exhibitions
- Day pass (R150 – R195) for Friday, Saturday or Sunday, includes all studios, galleries and exhibitions for the day
The Olive Branch Project
A large-scale community production of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is in the early stages of preparation, with performers and designers exploring the play’s themes of division, prejudice, love and reconciliation. Visitors to the Solo Studios event will be able to witness the usually private relationship between director and actor, through demonstration rehearsals led by Mark Graham-Wilson. The rehearsals will be complemented by an exhibition documenting the performances, productions and skills initiatives of nonprofit initiative, Olive Branch Project.
Book accommodation in Riebeek Valley
As the event takes place mainly within the homes and studios of the artists, access is limited, so pre-booking is essential.
Similarly, if you’re planning to make a weekend of it, you should book your accommodation in the Riebeek Valley soon as you’re able! We recommend the stunning Shiraz Estate Guest House – a converted farmhouse dating back to 1881 that features eight beautifully decorated en-suite bedrooms, divided into double rooms, four-sleepers and studios.
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