PLAY Takes Center Stage at Cape Town Art Fair 2025: A Preview of What’s to Come

People walking in the aisles of Investec Cape Town Art Fair 2025 © Credit Photographer – Anton Scholtz

Back in February 2020, I visited the Investec Cape Town Art Fair, blissfully unaware that in less than a month, the global Covid-19 health crisis would unfold, bringing a sudden halt to all artistic events, including fairs. This fair was just one of many stops for me at the time, and I didn’t realize how much of a lasting impression it would leave on me. I was eagerly anticipating finally returning this year, but unforeseen circumstances will keep me in Paris. Therefore, I feel compelled to talk about it!
If I had to describe the Fair in two words, they would be: vibrant and lively.

Investec Cape Town Art Fair is gearing up to celebrate its 12th edition this year, set to dazzle from February 21-23, 2025! Far from its humble beginnings, it has now firmly established itself as one of Cape Town’s premier international attractions. This year, the Fair boasts an impressive roster of 124 exhibitors from around the globe, from Japan to Egypt and Germany to Kuwait, including Uganda—not to mention the key local players that always draw a crowd. Uniquely led by a dynamic team of women, the Fair stands out as a beacon of empowerment and creativity. Positioned as the foremost art event on the African continent, it serves as a vibrant bridge, connecting contemporary African art to enthusiasts and markets in Europe, the US, and beyond.

This year’s theme at Investec Cape Town Art Fair is perfectly in tune with my own approach to art… The buzzword is “PLAY!” Of course, ‘play’ has multiple meanings—it can be both serious and lighthearted. “PLAY” will be explored through distinct yet interconnected approaches: Play as an action, brimming with spontaneity and delight; play as a game, offering an open-ended journey; and play your role, using art to shape culture and spark dialogue. This theme invites everyone at the fair to dive into experimentation and the joy of discovery, showcasing art’s potential to captivate and provoke.

As with most art fairs I visit, Investec Cape Town Art Fair is divided into distinct yet complementary sectors. The Main Sector, curated by the fair director Laura Vincenti, hosts well-established galleries from their home countries, such as Anna Laudel in Turkey, Bode in Germany, Gallery Nosco in Belgium, and Galleria Giovanni Bonelli in Italy. It prominently features major South African galleries, many of which I frequently see at other international fairs, including Goodman Gallery, SMAC Gallery, WHATIFTHEWORLD, Kalashnikovv Gallery, and RESERVOIR. However, what truly sets the fair apart in my eyes is its spotlight on the emerging scene. It serves as a breeding ground for young galleries and extremely promising artists, offering a fresh and vibrant perspective to the art world.

Mareli Lal, Behind the Scenes, 2018. Inkjet Print on Felix Schoeller True Rag Etching Paper. 47.5 x 67 cm. © SMAC Gallery

The South-African artist COW MASH in front of her work © Berman Contemporary

Investec Cape Town Art Fair continues to lead with its sharp curatorial eye, capturing the latest in global and local art trends with three additional curated sections: SOLO, Generations, and special project Cabinet/Trophy. These areas will highlight a mix of voices and stories, emphasizing the vital role of artistic exploration.

SOLO, steered by French art consultant Céline Seror, dives into the playful sides of art through whimsical experiments and imaginative inquiries. Focusing on the theme “PLAYSCAPES: Shaping Worlds and Selves,” ten artists from around the world will showcase their unique interpretations of how play molds our lives and identities. I’m particularly excited about the work of COW MASH, a South African artist who intriguingly describes herself as “a transdimensional farmer.” I’m eager to see how she interprets the theme of PLAY at the fair. Additionally, it’s refreshing to see her represented by Berman Contemporary, founded in 2016 by Candice Berman. This female-led gallery focuses on representing, supporting, and empowering women artists. In an art market that’s still predominantly male, I believe this is a stance worth applauding and supporting!

Khoshoua El Gohary, Tent Play, 2019. TAM Gallery

The Generations section, curated by Egyptian writer Heba El Kayal, celebrates artists from various career stages, fostering dynamic cross-generational conversations. This segment invites selected galleries to explore the theme of play, both in literal and abstract ways. I’m eager to see how artists embrace this theme and create dialogues between their works. I’m particularly drawn to the striking black and white vases by Andrew Mogridge and the emotionally rich paintings of Khoshoua El Gohary from TAM Gallery. This section promises a treasure trove of artistic discoveries!

John Newdigate, Iam Garrett, Summer Fruit All Year ‘Round, 2024. Underglaze Painted Porcelain, 34 x 30 x 30 cm (EBONY/CURATED) & Kamal El-Feky, Untitled, 2024. Bronze, 150 x 119 x 70 cm (Eclectica Contemporary).

I must confess that it’s the special project Cabinet/Trophy that truly captures my attention this edition. Curated by Exhibition Match, Alexander Richards and Dr Phokeng Setai, this unique initiative invites galleries to creatively fill a trophy cabinet, exploring the intersection of art and sport. This project redefines trophies not just as symbols of past victories but as dynamic elements that engage the audience in a playful and thoughtful way.

Among the standout participants, don’t miss the expressive bronze animals by Wilma Cruise at Red Room Gallery, John Newdigate’s anthropomorphic ceramics adorned with ornate patterns and vibrant colors at EBONY/CURATED, the poetically crafted sculptures by Egyptian artist Kamal El-Feky at Eclectica Contemporary, and the powerfully feminist sculptures of Zanele Muholi at Southern Guild. Also, be sure to experience the whimsical ceramic candies by Geena Wilkinson at WORLDART, which are sure to evoke a nostalgic trip back to childhood!

Zanele Muholi, Bambatha (The Southern Guild)  & Geena Wilkinson, Mark The Spot, 2024 (WORLDART)

This is, of course, just a small taste of what the 12th edition of Investec Cape Town Art Fair has to offer. As we approach the event, the entire city is preparing to transform into a week-long arts extravaganza from February 21-23. This year, with over 30,000 art enthusiasts anticipated and an unprecedented 30 first-time exhibitors, the fair is set to be the most expansive yet.

Beyond the fair, Cape Town buzzes with artistic energy, starting with the contemporary African masterpieces at Zeitz MOCAA and the Norval Foundation’s harmonious blend of art and nature. The city’s rich history unfolds at the Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum, while various art and cultural tours delve into the diverse neighborhoods. For those who appreciate both fine wine and fine art, several local vineyards showcase their impressive collections. The artistic journey culminates with the vibrant exhibitions at the Stellenbosch Triennale in the scenic winelands.

Although I won’t be able to attend personally this year, I am eagerly looking forward to hearing from all the “art lovers” who do—please send me your feedback and personal highlights!

Visitors at Investec Cape Town Art Fair. Credit Photographer – Anton Scholtz 

The Fine Print
● The 12th Investec Cape Town Art Fair will run from 21 to 23 February at the Cape Town International Conference Centre from 12 pm to 7 pm.
● Tickets can be purchased via webtickets. Visit www.investeccapetownartfair.co.za or follow on Instagram @investeccapetownartfair and Facebook @investeccapetownartfair.