The Johannesburg Art Gallery has been a magnet for art lovers for more than 100 years. Since it was founded in 1910 the collection has grown to over 9,000 pieces. Tour its galleries to see local and international art from the 15th century to the present day.
The gallery’s extensive collection is spread throughout 15 galleries and a sculpture garden. There is only a small selection of items on display at any one time. See paintings by such renowned European artists as Claude Monet, Henry Moore and Pablo Picasso. Admire works by French sculptor Auguste Rodin and Dante Gabriel Rossetti, one of the founding members of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood.
Tour the exhibitions dedicated to South African art. Among the featured artists are Gerard Sekoto, a pioneer of black South African art, sculptor Sydney Kumalo and painters Alexis Preller and Maud Sumner. Also on display are traditional African pieces, such as tribal jewellery, ceramics and objects fashioned from clay, bronze and other materials. Browse the set of 15th-century prints and the private lace collection of Lady Florence Philips who was one of the gallery’s original backers.
In addition to pieces from its permanent collection, the gallery also hosts a number of temporary exhibitions. Past examples include Venus at Home, an exhibition by Usha Seejarim that highlighted the artist’s love of everyday and household objects.
The Johannesburg Art Gallery is in the downtown area on the south side of Joubert Park. Public transport options include buses, which stop close to the gallery’s entrance, and trains. The city’s main train station is a 10-minute walk away. Drivers will find metered parking at the train station.
The gallery is open from Tuesday to Sunday and admission is free. Guided tours are available by request.
After your art experience, take a few moments to enjoy Joubert Park. Admire the ornamental fountain, play chess on the giant chessboards and relax on the lawns.
