The 13th edition of the Investec Cape Town Art Fair opens on 20 February at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, featuring 126 exhibitors from 23 cities. Amid recent debates on art and censorship, the fair's theme 'Listen' emphasizes reflection and dialogue. Director Laura Vincenti highlights the event as a space for cultural exchange.
The Investec Cape Town Art Fair, regarded as the leading international art fair on the African continent, returns for its 13th year. It will showcase works from 126 exhibitors across 23 cities, opening on 20 February at the Cape Town International Convention Centre.
This edition arrives following controversy involving artist Gabrielle Goliath, who is suing Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie. Goliath alleges that McKenzie acted unlawfully by withdrawing her work 'Elegy' from the South African pavilion at the 61st Venice Biennale, violating freedom of expression.
The fair's theme, 'Listen', emerged from discussions on global issues. Director Laura Vincenti, an architect with 27 years in the art fair sector, described listening as 'a radical act' in the current environment. 'Everyone has an opinion, but no one is ready to listen to each other,' she said. Vincenti views the theme as adding a layer to viewing art, making it more intimate and reflective.
Vincenti noted surprises in the artworks, including many exploring ancestral memories and spirituality, possibly linked to contemporary uncertainties. The fair includes a booth-free photographic exhibition curated by Beata America at the entrance, allowing visitors to hear artists' stories. Video and 3D installations will also feature prominently.
On inclusivity, Vincenti aims to make the fair an educational hub for broader audiences, including schools from disadvantaged areas. She addresses misconceptions about African art's diversity among first-time visitors.
Artist and critic Noah Becker offered another view, stating art fairs are 'predominantly about sales' rather than activism. He acknowledged trends toward greater representation of black and women artists but emphasized the commercial dynamics.
