Zeitz Mocaa: A Beacon of Contemporary Art in South Africa
Written by OOSA
Photography by Bruno Rosa
In Cape Town's bustling Silo District sits the Zeitz MOCAA (Museum of Contemporary Art Africa). It is a key center for contemporary African art and more than just a museum; it's a place that's changing how the world sees African art.
The building, an old Grain Silo built in 1921, was once the tallest in South Africa, playing a crucial role in maize storage, but with the rise of new shipping methods, this large complex needed a new purpose.
The transformation into a museum was a joint idea between the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and Jochen Zeitz, a German businessman who collects African modern art. The reimagination of the grain silo by Heatherwick Studio and South African architects blends historical features with modern design. The spacious atrium and distinctive glass exteriors create a harmonious balance between the building's past and its new role as a contemporary art space.
The exterior of Zeitz MOCAA is adorned with distinctive pillow-like windows, presenting a striking architectural feature. These unique windows, reminiscent of oversized cushions, contribute to the building's contemporary and artistic facade.
El Loko's 'Cosmic Alphabet' is featured on nine laminated glass discs that serve as both the ceiling of Zeitz MOCAA and the floor of the museum's rooftop sculpture garden. This unique installation is the latest articulation of the Togoan artist's exploration of language and communication, using his invented symbols to create a universal language that transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries.
Zeitz MOCAA's convex windows from the inside, offering a beautiful view of the city. These unique windows provide a kaleidoscopic effect, adding to the museum's contemporary and artistic interior. The contrast between the raw concrete structure and the soft, cushion-shaped windows creates a stunning visual experience.
It moves away from traditional European perspectives and celebrates the diverse cultures of Africa through modern art. The Building now has numerous rooms, each telling different African stories and ideas, challenging old views and bringing a fresh understanding of African creativity.
Zeitz MOCAA isn't just about displaying art; it's also committed to education and community work. The museum has special programs like the Centre for Art Education and the Atelier artist residency to help new African artists develop their skills and share their work. The museum also connects the past and present of African art and offers a platform for artists to share their stories with the world. Various events and workshops engage the local community and visitors.
As the largest museum of its kind, it stands at the forefront of a new era for African art and culture. For further details and to explore current exhibitions and programs, you can visit the museum's website at Zeitz MOCAA.
To complete the experience look at its museum shop. Offering a curated selection of art-inspired items, the shop features contemporary designs, books, prints, stationery, gifts, jewelry, and fashion from top designers in South Africa and beyond. The shop, open daily, allows visitors to take home a piece of the museum experience, with special editions and exclusive items related to current exhibitions.
