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To Breathe and Pause:
The Stellenbosch Triennale invites you to Rehearse for the Future
To Breathe and Pause:
The Stellenbosch Triennale invites you to Rehearse for the Future
By Ten x Collective
Posted Wednesday 4 September 2024
The Stellenbosch Triennale, a pivotal event in the global art calendar, will once again transform the historic town of Stellenbosch into a dynamic, open-air gallery from 19 February to 30 April 2025. The brainchild of the Stellenbosch Outdoor Sculpture Trust (SOST), a non profit organisation and supported by Outset Contemporary Art Fund, the Triennale that is free to the public promises to be a profound exploration of art, community and existence under the evocative theme by sociologist, sangoma and Chief Curator Khanyisile Mbongwa titled, BA’ZINZILE: A Rehearsal for Breathing.
The Stellenbosch Triennale debuted in 2020 with a bold vision: to elevate Stellenbosch, as a premier destination for multidisciplinary art in Africa and to create a platform where public art and creativity engage critically with society. The inaugural event set a high standard with its array of provocative installations and performances that challenged visitors to rethink their surroundings and themselves.
Building on this foundation, the 2025 edition seeks to push boundaries even further. As Chief Curator Mbongwa explains, “For this Triennale I want us to enter into a rehearsal space as a way of imagining how we can co-create in the real world, how exhibition making in itself is a rehearsal space for the things we want to do. And as such, I have invited artists to make their work on-site over a 10 day period that can be recycled or disintegrated back to land after the Triennale so as to minimise my carbon footprint by not transporting artworks back and forth. In this way, we get to enact a playfulness in the making and witnessing the work.”
This commitment to sustainability and process forms part of the curators practice of Care & Cure. Mbongwa – a Stellenbosch university alumnus who works within public realm, interventions and interdisciplinary practices – in this project heeded the call from her ancestors to mediate on themes that explore spirit, breath and improvisation. “I am in the labour of my purpose. My work is always expansive and a deep-time conversation with amadlozi (ancestors), uNkulunkulu (God/Source), and Abahlali (the collective of beings); as I move through and in the world, I’m invited into different geographical locations and called into spiritual ancestral indigenous conversations,” explains Mbongwa.
A Tradition of Artistic Innovation
The inaugural Stellenbosch Triennale took place at the start of the COVID-19 global pandemic, which cut the Triennale’s duration short and changed many lives. Project Director and Trustee, Andi Norton, draws parallels to this year’s exhibition sub-theme of rehearsal. “We had no idea that it would only be open for such a short time in 2020, we had worked hard and sacrificed so much and to have it all be shut down so soon was devastating. It was only after a year or two that we could start exploring doing another one.” Norton continues, “Only now can we look back on it and see the incredible rehearsal space that it was for us.
Through the theme, the curator is giving us, the organisers and artists, permission to experiment and play.” The theme, BA’ZINZILE: A Rehearsal for Breathing, invites artists and audiences alike to contemplate the act of breathing — both a fundamental physical process and a metaphor for resilience and survival. “Breathing in states of duress, breathing through wounds,” reflects Mbongwa in her curatorial statement, “we persist, we insist, we improvise our existence in a world that often feels like it’s losing its breath.”
Informed by the Nguni concept of UKU’ZINZA — being grounded and calm — the theme explores stillness as a mechanism for survival, a strategy for imagination, and an act of aliveness. In a time when breathlessness is a global experience, the Triennale positions itself as a space for reflection, recovery, and preparation for a different future.
A Dynamic and Interactive Experience
Unlike traditional art exhibitions, the Stellenbosch Triennale 2025 will be a living, breathing entity, constantly evolving over its two-month duration. The intention is to invite our visitors to enter a rehearsal space with us, where some works will exist in a space of improvisation, some in the space of composition and intervention, others in exploration – in the ways we negotiate our breath and ultimately our aliveness.
Assistant Curator Dr Mike Mavura adds, “We wanted the artists to think of breath in multiple ways in relation to the human body and to start to think of breath in expanded ways; what happens when you breathe deeply? What happens when you are short of breath? And then, what happens when you can’t breathe?” This conceptual framework will be evident in the diverse array of mediums on display, from visual art and sculpture to sound installations, performance, and dance.
A Curated Selection of International Artists across Multiple Venues across Stellenbosch
The 2025 Stellenbosch Triennale will feature an impressive line-up of artists from the African continent and beyond. Among the artists participating In The Current include: Alexandre Kyungu Mwilambwe (Democratic Republic of Congo), Aline Motta (Brazil), Aziz Hazara (Afghanistan), Lebohang Kganye (South Africa), Simphiwe Ndzube (South Africa),Torkwase Dyson (USA), Thierry Oussou (Benin) and William Miko (Zambia). “We will be showcasing a truly diverse range of practices,” notes Mavura, “from sound, sculpture, and installations with plant life to paintings, photography, dance, and performance. The aim is to activate all the senses, providing a holistic experience that challenges and delights.”
The featured artists in On the Cusp include: Astrid González (Colombia-Chile), Helen Zeru (Ethiopia), Kasangati Godelive Kabena (Democratic Republic of Congo), Manyaku Mashilo (South Africa), Nandele Muguni (Mozambique), Simphiwe Buthelezi (South Africa), Takunda Regis Billiat (Zimbabwe) and Tuli Mekodjo (Namibia).
A Rehearsal for a New World
The Stellenbosch Triennale will take place at the Oude Libertas precinct and across multiple venues throughout the town, turning Stellenbosch into a curated public laboratory for creative expressions and engagements. The collaboration with the Stellenbosch Outdoor Sculpture Trust and other local institutions ensures a rich, textured experience that reflects the unique cultural and natural landscape of the region, recognised for its vineyards and academic excellence.
This year’s Triennale is more than an exhibition; it is a call to action, a rehearsal for breathing anew in a world filled with challenges and possibilities. “Art becomes an infrastructure for cure and care,” says Mbongwa, “posing the question: if death is the given condition, how do we prepare to live?” The Stellenbosch Triennale 2025 invites you to be part of this journey – to breathe, reflect, imagine, play, and rehearse for the world we want to create.
The Stellenbosch Triennale takes place from 19 February – 30 April 2025 at Oude Libertas, the Woodmill, Rupert Museum and Stellenbosch University Museum. Entry is free to the public.
For more information:
Visit www.stellenboschtriennale.com
Follow on X (Twitter) @stbtriennale, on Instagram @stellenboschtriennale and Facebook @stellenboschtriennale
#StellenboschTriennale #ST2025
The Stellenbosch Triennale 2025 is supported by Outset Contemporary Art Fund, Afexim Bank, Remgro, and Heineken.
FOOD XX Awards 2024
Recognising 19 Women Transforming South Africa’s Food Scene
FOOD XX Awards 2024
Recognising 19 Women Transforming South Africa’s Food Scene
By Studio H
By Studio H
A group of 19 women from across South Africa have been honoured for their outstanding contributions to the food and hospitality industry.
The winners of the 2024 FOOD XX Awards have been revealed, with 19 pioneers honoured at a special ceremony held at Soetmelksvlei, Babylonstoren, on Wednesday, 28 August. Launched by Studio H in 2019, the biennial awards celebrate the remarkable contributions of women across the food and hospitality industry, recognising excellence in everything from farming and food styling to education, culinary heritage, and beyond.
“We were once again overwhelmed by the incredible volume of nominations,” says Hannerie Visser, director and founder of Studio H. “This only strengthens our conviction that women truly are the backbone of the food and hospitality industry. Now, more than ever, it’s crucial that we take the time to celebrate and honour their remarkable contributions.”
The winners were those who received the most votes from a pool of over 500 candidates. Nominations were open to the public during the months of July and August, with the judging performed by an independent panel comprising winners from the year prior – as is customary at the FOOD XX Awards. This year’s panel consisted, amongst others, of Dr Anna Trapido, Zandile Finxa, Khanya Mzongwana and Errieda du Toit.
“We are thrilled to shine a light on the extraordinary women shaping the future of our industry,” says Visser. “The FOOD XX Awards are more than just a celebration of their achievements; they are a platform for amplifying their voices and fostering a community where women can inspire, uplift, and support one another across every aspect of food and hospitality.”
The 2024 FOOD XX Awards winners, by category, are as follows:
Baker: Megan Wessels, owner of With HÄRT Bakery
Behind the scenes: Chiara Turilli, co-founder of Lello’s Deli
Drinks: Danielle Schoeman, the founder and distiller at Doña Distillery
Food Educator: Debbie Ayub, co-owner & principal of Sense of Taste Chef School
Food Entrepreneur: Daniela Gutstadt, owner and executive chef of Culinary Table Restaurant and Deli in Lanseria
Farming: Iming Lin, owner of Meuse Farm
Food Heritage: Mashau Mabunda, founder of Xigugu Royalty
Food Photographer: Ashleigh Frans, owner of Wide Wing Photography
Food stylist presented by Spekko: Simone Nel
Food writer presented by Spekko: Khanya Mzongwana, Deputy Food Editor, Woolworths Taste
Front of House presented by Krone: Katlego Mathobela, head sommelier at Proud Mary
Future Food: Roushanna Gray, founder and owner of Veld and Sea
Giving Back: Nolizwe Sotondoshe, founder of Nande’s Kitchen
In The Kitchen: Jes Doveton, owner of Acid Wine Bar
Sustainability: Latiefah Behardien, the Chief Technical and Sustainability Officer at Woolworths Foods
Legacy Award: Abigail Donnelly, the Creative Food Editor at Woolworths Taste, Eat Out Chief Judge and Food Creative for Woolworths Foods Marketing
Trailblazer: Zyda Rylands, the outgoing CEO of Woolworths Foods
Chef of the Year presented by ClemenGold: Jessica van Dyk, Chef Patron at Post & Pepper
Food Icon: Xoliswa Ndoyiya, former personal chef to Nelson Mandela and custodian of Xhosa culinary culture
“Our winners are paving the way for a future where food connects us all in deeper, more meaningful ways,” says Visser. “Their creativity and determination are driving change that extends beyond the plate – redefining our relationships, our communities, and our shared experiences.”
In the spirit of supporting women and the community that FOOD XX celebrates, the 2024 awards trophies were crafted by Brigitte Lilley (@beelilley), a former FOOD XX Awards winner in the ‘Behind the Scenes’ category.
Contact :
JC Landman jc@studio-h.co.za or Hannerie Visser h@studio-h.co.za
Follow @fxxd_xx on Instagram
Launching Design Week South Africa :
A platform for South Africa’s creative industries to showcase, inspire and prosper
By Design Week South Africa
By Design Week South Africa
Design Week South Africa, powered by Yoco, is a curated calendar of events and immersive experiences that will showcase the future of South African design through knowledge-sharing, inclusivity and support.
Together with Yoco, their mission is to create South Africa’s leading design platform. A platform that celebrates design as an expression of creative thinking and making, creates connections, jumpstarts collaborations, and cultivates the next generation of creative leaders.
The initiative aims to boost the local creative economy through product showcases, exhibitions and activations, while increasing both the local, and international public and media’s knowledge, awareness, and appreciation of South African design.
‘I have had the privilege of a career spent contributing towards, promoting and engaging with our local creative community. With an abundance of skills, opportunities, and energy at our disposal, I am excited to embark on a new role where I can help to create a platform that showcases forward-thinking design that is inspirational, educational, sustainable and economically viable for all who engage in it,’ says Design Week South Africa founder, Margot Molyneux.
OPEN CALL :
Occurring in Johannesburg and Cape Town, designers, brands and makers are invited to apply to participate in each city’s four day event. Once accepted, creatives will be included in a calendar of events that will consist of workshops, exhibitions, engaging discussions, interactive installations, performances, showroom experiences, food and drinks activations, exciting collaborations, product launches, walkabout tours and open studios.
Spanning all design disciplines, Design Week’s aim is to include the fields of Architecture, Art, Dance, Fashion, Food, Furniture, Graphic Design, Industrial, Interior, Jewellery, Music, Product Design and Urban Planning.
Each showcase, event, activation and exhibition on display at Design Week South Africa 2024 will be curated through the lens of their four content pillars: Space Sharing, Growing Collaboratively, Future Archives, Game Changing.
Link to applications : www.designweeksouthafrica.com
TITLE SPONSOR :
Yoco builds financial tools and solutions for businesses of all sizes and all kinds. They understand and celebrate the crucial role the creative industry plays in the economy and society as a whole. Yoco proudly supports Design Week South Africa, celebrating the many creative entrepreneurs through this platform.
Mmaphuthi Morule, Head of Brand Marketing at Yoco explains, ‘At Yoco, we’re proud to support Design Week South Africa, a platform that mirrors our own commitment to fostering creativity and innovation. By empowering local designers and creators, we’re not just celebrating their achievements; we’re investing in a vibrant future for South Africa’s creative economy. This partnership aligns with our mission to support small businesses and drive growth through meaningful connections and transformative experiences.’
FEATURED PROJECT :
The Modular Public Playground is a fantastic example of how collaboration and creativity can generate positive change in our communities. Aiming to transform public space into safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing areas, this three-piece installation was commissioned by Young Urbanists, in partnership with Urban Think-Tank Empower. Designed by Jeffrey James, and locally manufactured by Stonecast, these pieces are part of South Africa’s first street experiment on Langa’s Lerotholi Avenue, in collaboration with the Masakhe Foundation and the City of Cape Town.
‘Our purpose at Design Week South Africa is to encourage and showcase innovative creativity, expanding local design appreciation, and positively influencing our communities. Whether it be interior, product or furniture design, landscape or urban planning, the act of creative thinking can be a game changer – and we’re here to engage with it, witness exciting projects like this one, and ultimately celebrate it all’, says Margot.
DATES :
Johannesburg
Thursday, 10 – Sunday, 13 October 2024
Cape Town
Thursday, 24 – Sunday, 27 October 2024
VISIT :
As of mid-September, the public will be able to book tickets and RSVP to the various Design Week events through an online portal.
CONTACT :
Visit www.designweeksouthafrica.com
Follow @designweeksouthafrica on Instagram
