THE eagerly anticipated Solo Studios – Intimate Art Encounters returns to the Riebeek Valley this month with what promises to be another highlight on the cultural calendar.
Seventeen artists’ studios will be open to the public over the weekend of 18 to 20 August, with seven of these artists having invited external collaborators to co-exhibit in their personal spaces.
A further seven group exhibitions will be held at various galleries and venues, including two private art collections in exclusive guest houses. Spending time in the intimate spaces of the artists’ studios will offer pass-holders an insight into their processes and inspiration.
“We don’t merely sell art at Solo Studios. We sell an experience,” says Klaus Piprek, co-founder and director of Solo Studios. “These experiences go further than the visual arts. Apart from the art exhibitions, there is so much more to enjoy in what has become known as Arts Town Riebeek Valley, encompassing the twin towns of Riebeek Kasteel and Riebeek West.”
Prepare to be lured away from your planned art route by the aromas wafting from a coffee shop, by the scent of essential oils from the locally produced botanical range or by a tantalising wine tasting at some of the most acclaimed Swartland wine producers.
“As always, the Riebeek Valley will put on its best dress in anticipation of the influx of art aficionados to this prestigious event and visitors can expect a host of venues offering food experiences and wine tastings,” comments Shawn Hewitt, project manager for this year’s event. “Entertainers will flow onto the streets and pavements and creative community development projects will be showcased in plentiful fringe activities. Add to that the richness of local flavour from wine and olive producers, the abundance of restaurants, the village bakery and the profusion of craft and artisanal outlets.”
The best way to fully appreciate what we have to offer is to make a whole weekend of it, Klaus advises. “There’s simply not enough time in one day to fully absorb all that Solo Studios and the valley have to offer.”
A highlight of the 2023 event is a charity fundraising concert by the Winelands Philharmonic Orchestra and featuring the Riebeek Kasteel Steelband. When the sounds of newly commissioned music specially composed for Solo Symphony fill the NG Church building in Riebeek Kasteel on August 20th, history will be made in many respects.
For the first time, a full symphony orchestra will be heard in this building, whose cornerstone was laid 110 years ago in 1913; for the first time, the local Steelband, which has become an institution over the last 25 years for performing at events, will also play in this building; and for the first time, these two orchestras will perform music together – a new overture composed by Kristi Boonzaaier, as well as arrangements by Boonzaaier of music that the Steelband has previously performed solo numerous times.
The scenic Riebeek Valley is less than an hour’s drive from Cape Town and other cultural centres such as Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek. Accommodation in the two small towns is limited and patrons are strongly encouraged to book tickets and accommodation well in advance.
There is a variety of options of passes, from a Day Pass at R150, to a Premier Weekend Pass at R395 per person. Peripheral activities may incur a surcharge. Tickets for Solo Symphony Concert are available here.
For ticket sales and more information, click here or contact Shawn on 082 528 6785.
