Boschendal farm and Norval Foundation today announced the establishment of a formal partnership that will introduce guests visiting the much-loved historic Winelands farm to some of South Africa, and the continent’s, top artists.

The partnership will see the establishment of a series of satellite art exhibitions hosted at Boschendal’s historic Manor House and surrounding grounds. Respected as one of the country’s oldest farms, with deep cultural and community roots stretching back to 1685, Boschendal’s collaboration with Norval further reflects the farm’s commitment to celebrating emerging creative talent through arts and culture.

“The combination of Boschendal’s rich cultural heritage and the Norval Foundation’s unparalleled access to contemporary African art will create an extraordinary experience for all our guests,” says Georgie Davidson, CEO at Boschendal. “We are proud to introduce this unique showcase blending history, art and innovation, and look forward to welcoming guests from all over the world to our historic farm to join us in celebrating inspiring South African and African creative talent.”

The Norval Foundation was founded in 2018 and has established itself as a premier centre for the research, education and exhibition of 20th and 21st-century visual art from South Africa and beyond.

From left to right; Khanya Mashabela; Norval Curator, Ricci Unterhalter; Head of Retail and Jacques Mouton; Architect 

Elana Brundyn, Education and Development Partner of Norval Foundation, says: “We are honoured to partner with Boschendal and especially proud to mark our first satellite project on this beautiful historical farm, to create more opportunities for learning through art and culture, and to reach a more expansive audience. “ 

From today, visitors will be welcomed by a contemporary collection of art that contrasts with the Manor House’s rich history, providing a nuanced experience for art lovers. The first year’s programming will be drawn from Norval Foundation’s Homestead Collection, which features artists from across Africa, but with a strong Southern Africa representation. Exhibitions will rotate every three to four months and admission is free.

Owen Martin, Director and Chief Curator at the Norval Foundation adds: “We’re excited to be sharing Norval Foundation’s programming and collection with audiences in the Cape Winelands. In contrast to Norval Foundation’s contemporary site, Boschendal’s much longer history will encourage new readings of artworks displayed there while also challenging the curatorial team to come up with innovative solutions.”

Installation of visual activist Zanele Muholi’s photographic work

In addition to the museum-quality exhibitions on show in the Manor House, a bespoke art retail section will be introduced alongside it and will include, to start with, unique clay vases by designer and sculptor Githan Coopoo specifically created for Boschendal. The exhibition Githan Coopoo: Structural Integrity will be the artist’s first solo exhibition. The art retail offering is a perfect complement to the farm’s recently launched omnichannel retail offering that delivers a selection of locally sourced goods to South African homes.

“Boschendal’s impressive history as a welcoming meeting place of art and culture, and our ongoing commitment to creating unforgettable guest experiences, continues with our exciting new partnership with the Norval Foundation,” says Ricci Unterhalter, Head of Retail at Boschendal. “We are excited to play host to some of the best art and artists our country and continent has to offer and look forward to welcoming people from all walks of life to our farm.”

Work has been completed on a sensitive renovation and restoration of the historic Manor House. In consultation with specialists from Cape Heritage, Boschendal and its architect partners have made temporary changes to the Manor House’s interior to accommodate the art displays and an anticipated increased footfall from visitors excited to see the Norval satellite art exhibitions at the farm.

The Norval Foundation and Boschendal’s first collaborative exhibition is now on display at Boschendal. Admission is free to all visitors.