The announcement of Africa’s first dedicated contemporary art museum back in 2013, the Zeitz MOCAA (Museum of Contemporary Art Africa), has had the public very keen on the impending arrival of the development. The new museum will be located in the former grain silos at the V&A Waterfront.
The R500-million non-profit project was jointly undertaken by the Waterfront, who has partly funded the redevelopment at no cost, and German entrepreneur and philanthropist Jochen Zeitz, whose founding collection will be on long-term loan.
Once the tallest building in sub-Saharan Africa, the grain silo complex became integral to South Africa’s industrial and agricultural development after its opening in August 1924. Though operation ceased in 2001, the building remains a spectacular icon within the Mother City.
The Zeitz MOCAA will hold its grand public opening from 22 to 25 September 2017, to coincide with Heritage Day weekend, and is dubbed to be to Cape Town what the Tate Modern is to London and MoMA to New York.
Attracting a new art-loving audience, the 9 500 square metres across nine floors – 6 000 square metres of which will offer a dedicated exhibition space across seven levels – the museum offers an art extravaganza for musem-goers and art-lovers alike. It will also offer a multi-functional event and restaurant area in the Museum Cafe and charming Sculpture Garden.
Under 18’s will have free entry to the museum on an ongoing basis, while all South Africa and African citizens can enjoy free admission on Wednesdays. The grand opening offers free entry for everyone on the weekend of 22 – 25 September 2017!
Photography a as architecture, Heatherwick studio, CNN