Investec Cape Town Art Fair 2025: A Celebration of Creativity
The 12th edition of the Investec Cape Town Art Fair, held from February 21 to 23, 2025, was a vibrant showcase of artistic talent from around the world. Featuring works from over 100 artists and 124 exhibitors, the fair brought together 58 countries across five continents – proving once again why it’s Africa’s premier contemporary art event.
A Playful Theme with a Serious Message
This year’s theme, “PLAY,” was more than just an invitation to have fun – it was a deep dive into the role of play in culture, creativity, and even social change. Artists explored everything from childhood nostalgia to the ways play can challenge societal norms and break down barriers. From interactive installations to bold experimental pieces, the fair transformed the Cape Town International Convention Centre into a dynamic, thought-provoking playground. With its blend of innovation, global perspectives, and a dash of playful mischief, it’s safe to say that this year’s theme hit the mark.
Highlights and Must-See Moments
One of the standout installations was in the SOLO Section by Kenyan-born sculptor Stanislaw Trzebinski debuting a new series of functional bronze sculptures. Trzebinski’s functional sculptures – bronze standing lights and an etched brass wall piece; reflect the theme Playscapes: Shaping Worlds and Selves. Blending digital modelling, 3D printing, and artisanal techniques, his organic forms imagine nature reclaiming Earth after climate collapse. Rooted in play, his process revives childhood wonder, breaking free from adult constraints to embrace creativity without judgment.
Collectors and casual visitors alike were drawn to the Tomorrows/Today section, which spotlighted emerging artists making waves in the contemporary scene. The SOLO section focused on artists who push boundaries in their individual practices – like Zimbabwe’s Kresiah Mukwazhi, whose textile-based works wove together personal history and political commentary. Another hit was Nigerian sculptor Ayo Okonkwo’s playful yet haunting series of marionettes, which subtly critiqued global politics.
More Than Just an Art Fair
Beyond the exhibition halls, the fair hosted lively panel discussions, live performances, and guided tours, creating a space for deeper engagement with the art. One particularly engaging talk featured renowned curator Bonolo Kavula, who discussed how playfulness can be a tool for healing and resistance in African art.
Some take-aways from the Fair
- This year’s fair saw a 20% increase in international exhibitors, highlighting Cape Town’s growing status in the global art scene.
- A special NFT and digital art section was introduced, bringing a futuristic twist to the fair.
- Ben Stanwix and Xhanti Zwelendaba won inaugural Emerging Artist Award.
- The fair’s youngest artist, 19-year-old Lesedi Mohlala, stunned audiences with a surrealist painting series inspired by childhood dreams.
- Several pieces sold within minutes of the fair’s opening, with some fetching six-figure prices.
