I’m a born and bred Capetonian, writes Cape {Town} Etc’s social butterfly, Jay-Tee Davidson. I’ve always been the “Cape Town plug” in social circles. If I’m not recommending a restaurant to visitors from Joburg, with juicy ribs, of course, I’m playing tour guide with guests from Durban and beyond.
I’ll give it to myself – I know the Mother City’s streets quite well. Or at least I thought I did. Until First Thursdays.
Plans of gallery browsing and bar hopping were seriously interrupted by my lack of preparation. My first attempt at this monthly event was the equivalent of running The Comrades without a single day of training in my arsenal.
Long story short, your girl here was left dazed and confused by the serious buzz that hits the streets on the first Thursday of each month. Long story short, I was unprepared, overwhelmed, and downright lost.
After failing my first attempt at gallery hopping, I promised myself that I will never be stuck in the vibrant streets of Cape Town with no plan ever again. It’s is safe to say that I have gone to extreme lengths to do First Thursday’s the right way.
I’ve planned my pitstops, booked my tables, and practiced all my “I know what I’m doing” faces for the artworks I’m yet to encounter.
Here’s my plan of action for First Thursday.
Galleries
5pm: Ebony Curated, 67 Loop Street, Cape Town
I’m super excited about this one! We get to see one of Cape Town’s own, Aviwe Plaatjies exhibiting his work at this brilliant studio. Plaatjies had an eye (and a hand) for art from a very young age. His talent was nurtured by his mother and her employer. His Makwande series will be up, showcasing his community with an escapist twist.
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5.45pm: Deepest Darkest, 20 Dixon Street, De Waterkant
Do you want to see an award-winning artist’s work in the flesh? This contemporary boutique studio is where you’ll see the works of national and international artists collaborating. This space welcomes all. Deepest Darkest will host a solo exhibition with the well-known, Hannalie Taute. Her “Eucatastrophe” series will be up for all art lovers to see.
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6.30pm: Young Blood, 70-74 Bree Street, Cape Town
Last but definitely not the least, this three-story gallery is a must-see. You can browse the setting with a glass of wine in hand, all while jamming to some fresh tunes curated by their in-house DJ.
Multiple artists will exhibit their work under “La Sape”, reflecting on their “desire to shine, to be honoured, an abundant source of joy and inspiration. While breathtaking in their own right as individuals.” Remember to charge your phone, because you might want to snap a few pics in this bright and beautiful gallery!
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Dinner and drinks
7pm: Drinks at La Parada, 107 Bree street, Schotschekloof
If you are looking for a spot that is right in the middle of the First Thursday’s experience, I would highly recommend this one. Just a few steps away from some well-known art galleries such as Young Blood, it’s the perfect place to start off.
They offer some yummy finger snacks and a two-for-one beer and wine special, from 5pm to 7pm.
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8pm: Dinner at Ëlgr restaurant, 75 Kloof street, Gardens
Snuggled up right next to the fireplace, sipping on some wine as we watch the chefs prepare our meals. Ëlgr is decorated with an abundance of plants, a modern courtyard and friendly staff.
This restaurant was conceptualised in the midst of lockdown by Swedish head chef, Jessper Nilson. I’m excited to see what this bold move has manifested into!
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Well, that’s my prep for the evening. Will I survive this round of First Thursdays? You’ll know where I’ll be – come find out!
See you tonight, Mother City!
Picture: Unsplash