Best Cape Town Art Galleries To Visit On First Thursdays
Inspiration is all around you if you know where to look. With a vibrant culture and a burgeoning art industry, Cape Town boasts some of the most talented artists on the continent – thankfully, locals can experience it on the first Thursday of each month. Whether you have an eye for art, an ear for music or a taste for fashion, look no further. Explore these galleries on First Thursdays for the best art the Mother City has to offer.
EBONY/CURATED
EBONY/CURATED represents a diverse portfolio of local and international artists. This gallery shines the spotlight on some of South Africa’s most talented artists, including Kimathi Mafafo, Aviwe Plaatjie and the like. Visit on First Thursdays to experience their latest exhibitions – a great addition to your gallery gallivanting.
Location: 67 Loop Street, Cape Town CBD
Hours: First Thursdays: 17h00–20h00
Contact: 021 424 9985
Eclectica Contemporary
With a focus on global and cultural discourse, Eclectica Contemporary brings African art to Cape Town and the world. The gallery frequently showcases art history with an edge, and new and experimental projects, promising something new with each visit.
Location: 56 Church Street, Cape Town CBD
Hours: First Thursdays: 17h00–20h00
Contact: 021 422 4145
eclecticacontemporary.co.za | Instagram
99 Loop Gallery
In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art, 99 Loop Gallery provides a platform to both esteemed and upcoming local artists. Touching on cornerstone conversational and cultural themes, gallerygoers can encounter unique paintings with compelling narratives at curated exhibitions on First Thursdays.
Location: 99 Loop Street, Corner of Loop and Church, Cape Town CBD
Hours: First Thursdays: 17h00–20h00
Contact: 021 422 3766
THK Gallery
Representing the likes of contemporary multimedia artist, Trevor Stuurman, and visual artist, Lulama Wolf, THK Gallery challenges society’s paradigm of aesthetic beauty in all its forms. With an experimental studio based in Cologne, Germany, and one in Cape Town, THK shines the proverbial spotlight on diverse painters, sculptors and visual art storytellers.
Location: 52 Waterkant Street, Cape Town CBD
Hours: First Thursdays: 18h00–20h00
Contact: 087 470 0178 | 076 367 6387
Rare Gallery
Fashion and art collide at Rare Gallery. Keeping culture at the forefront, this trendy gallery showcases immersive exhibitions. Their edgy collection comprises luxury streetwear gems and pop-up installations, as well as playful collectables and fascinating artworks. First Thursday guests will enjoy their unique collaborations that promise a rare experience.
Location: 6 Watson Street, Cape Town CBD
Hours: First Thursdays: 17h00–23h00
Contact: 074 784 2986
WORLDART
Step into the world of urban and pop art at WORLDART gallery. With vibrant, textured paintings and distinctive multimedia artworks, this gallery is a feast for the senses. They often host solo exhibitions and group shows with a contemporary art focus, featuring a colourful array of established local artists and rising talent who push the envelope.
Location: 54 Church Street, Cape Town CBD
Hours: First Thursdays: 17h00–20h00
Contact: 021 423 3075 | 072 279 8712 (WhatsApp)
The Cape Gallery
Located on Church Street in the heart of the city, The Cape Gallery is a local institution. Delve into South African tradition and the people and landmarks that shape our nation. Showcasing a broad platform of expressive works, The Cape Gallery is a celebration of emerging talent and African stories, immortalised by paint and lead.
Location: 60 Church Street, Cape Town CBD
Hours: First Thursdays: 16h00–19h00
Contact: 021 4235309
Always Welcome
Interior designer pundits will appreciate this stylish décor and homeware showroom. Located on Shortmarket Street, Always Welcome is a multi-brand retailer with an eclectic range of contemporary-styled furniture, lighting fixtures, centrepieces and accessories. Their unique portfolio of designers promises something for all tastes.
Location: 108 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town CBD
Hours: First Thursdays: 17h00–20h00
Contact: 067 396 1209
alwayswelcome.store | Instagram
Unique First Thursday Experiences – Music, Food, Drinks & Art
Check out these unique First Thursday experiences in Cape Town.
The Drinkery
What’s First Thursday without a cocktail or a glass of wine? This trendy speakeasy features artworks, ensuring a unique experience. Situated in a Cape Town heritage building with a remarkable history, The Drinkery caters to curious beings with a flair for creativity. Their drinks list features some of the country’s best wines; tastemakers will enjoy their Heritage Meets Legacy menu, a curation of cocktails, classics and Highball drinks.
Location: Mezzanine level, Heritage Square, 100 Shortmarket Street, Cape Town CBD
Hours: First Thursdays: 16h00–late
Contact: 082 464 4866
The Pink Room at Gorgeous George
Gorgeous George invites city dwellers to revel in the magic of music and art at their dedicated events space, The Pink Room. Indulge in fabulous cocktails and food; explore their curated exhibitions and vibe along to music at this popular locale.
Location: 118 St Georges Mall, Cape Town City Centre
Hours: First Thursdays: 17h00–23h00
Contact: 021 612 0999
gorgeousgeorge.co.za | Instagram
Mochi Mochi Japanese Café
Foodies and dessert lovers alike can gather at Mochi Mochi for a casual night out on the town. This whimsical Japanese café serves inspired savoury and sweet buns, matcha soft serve and, of course, mochi truffles. Come for the food and stay for their First Thursday pop-up art exhibitions – the ideal outing for friend groups.
Location: 71 Buitengracht Street, Cape Town CBD
Hours: First Thursdays: 18h00 – 21h00
Contact: 066 019 4656 | 021 422 4374
Meeting friends for drinks? Sip in style at these trendy cocktail bars in Cape Town.
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