Cape Town’s Deep South will once again become a destination for art lovers this October, when Open Studios Fish Hoek & Clovelly (OSFHC) returns for its 2026 edition from Friday, 9 October to Sunday, 11 October.
The self-guided art trail offers visitors the chance to step inside the studios of more than 30 artists across 20 locations in Fish Hoek and Clovelly. Rather than simply viewing finished works in a gallery setting, visitors can see where and how the art is made, with studios showcasing disciplines ranging from painting and printmaking to ceramics, sculpture, photography and mixed media.
Following its inaugural edition last year, the event has grown considerably, expanding from 19 featured artists to more than 30. This year's programme also introduces two shared studio hubs: Mothership Studios and Fish Hoek Studios, bringing together clusters of artists working across painting, sculpture, illustration and mixed media.
Despite the larger line-up, the event retains its curatorial focus. Every participating artist has been selected by a dedicated committee, ensuring that the growing trail maintains the standard established by OSFHC's first edition.
Meet The Artists
Among this year's newcomers is bronze sculptor Chris Bladen, whose detailed sculptures of fish and birds are informed by his interests in fly-fishing and birdwatching. Oil painter Mandy Lake joins the trail with ocean-inspired abstractions that have been exhibited at galleries from George to Ballito.
Photography is represented by Angela Buckland, whose work has been exhibited at the Iziko National Gallery and Durban Art Gallery, as well as published in three books. Illustrator Nicolene Louw brings her distinctive pen-and-ink work, which has been exhibited as far afield as Switzerland and Portugal.
Multidisciplinary artist Jasper Wolfeman completes the list of newcomers, with paintings and sculptural floral arrangements that have been exhibited in Cape Town, Barcelona and the USA.
A Preview For Collectors
For those wanting an early look at the trail, a ticketed preview event will take place on Friday, 9 October. The opening begins at 09h30 at AP Jones on Fish Hoek Main Road, followed by an opportunity to explore the participating studios until 16h00.
Tickets cost R150 per person, with proceeds supporting Project Flamingo, which provides compassionate and holistic care for breast cancer patients within the public healthcare system.
The opening event will include a bespoke installation and live performance, as well as a complimentary coffee voucher from Peak Café, a glass of Lubanzi Wines at the artists' studios and a wearable badge from Project Flamingo.
The public trail opens for free on Saturday, 10 October and Sunday, 11 October, from 10h00 to 16h00.
More Than An Art Trail
There will be plenty to discover beyond the studios. At Peak Café, visitors can create their own miniature artwork on a Post-it note, contributing to a growing community exhibition. Drawing materials and Post-it notes will be supplied by The Write Shoppe.
Artists will also compete in the Lubanzi Eco Wine Bucket Challenge, creating eco-friendly wine containers that will be displayed along the trail. Visitors can vote for their favourite design, with prizes available for both the public and the winning artist.
For route information, studio locations, artist profiles and points of interest, visitors can consult the official OSFHC map and guide online. With more artists, new studio hubs and a programme designed to bring audiences closer to the creative process, this year's Open Studios Fish Hoek & Clovelly promises an engaging way to experience Cape Town's art scene.
Event Details
Where: Fish Hoek and Clovelly, Cape TownPublic Open Studios: Saturday, 10 October to Sunday, 11 October 2026, 10h00–16h00Preview Event: Friday, 9 October 2026, from 09h30Preview Tickets: R150 per person, in aid of Project Flamingo
Credits
Images: Supplied
