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Kick Off Cape Town Art Week with Zeitz MOCAA and Athi-Patra Ruga for Exclusive Art Auction

This exclusive auction features a line-up of revered artists raising funds to support Zeitz MOCAA’s educational programmes

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By House & Garden South Africa | January 30, 2024 | Art

Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) announces a collaboration with acclaimed South African artist Athi-Patra Ruga ahead of its highly anticipated Gala event taking place on Sunday, 11 February.

The Gala is an extraordinary celebration of art kicking off Cape Town Art Week that rolls out with Investec Cape Town Art Fair and multiple artistic activations around the city. This event will feature an exclusive eduction from a line-up of revered artists raising funds to support the museum’s curatorial and education programming.

Unathi Mkonto by Johno Mellish. Image: Supplied.

The overall Gala scenography and key design elements are inspired by renowned South African artist Athi-Patra Ruga - drawing from his rich artistic oeuvre and adding a layer of aesthetic depth to an event that promises to be an enchanting experience. A key feature of the Gala is an exclusive art auction facilitated by Strauss & Co, featuring works generously donated by a stellar line-up of internationally recognised artists, including William Kentridge, Senzeni Marasela, Mary Evans, Zandile Tshabalala, Unathi Mkonto, Kemang Wa Lehulere, Abdoulaye Konaté, and Alfredo Jaar. Notably, South African artist Cinga Samson has made a generous monetary donation in support of the work of the institution.

In addition, the museum will present its prestigious Zeitz MOCAA Honorary Awards for Artistic Excellence and Philanthropic Achievement, recognising an exceptional individual in each category who have made outstanding contributions to our art ecology. It is a moment to honour the visionaries shaping the thriving landscape of contemporary art in Africa.

William Kentridge photographed by Stella Olivier.

A special invite-only Collateral Programme will be hosted by Zeitz MOCAA’s Executive Director and Chief Curator Koyo Kouoh for select VIP guests, bringing together some of the world's most significant art collectors, museum directors and other influential players in the global arts industry to engage with our local art ecology.

The programme unfolds over five days, offering a curated experience with a rich tapestry of events, engagements, and visits that provide a unique glimpse into Cape Town as a global art destination.

Drawing by South African artist William Kentridge. Image: Supplied.

Diving into cultural sites such as the San Heritage Centre !Khwa ttu, to engage with the museum's curatorial team through private tours of our current exhibitions, explore artistic practices during studio visits, connect with some of the country's most notable galleries and art institutions, and share meals at the city’s most sought-after hotels, addresses, and restaurants.