Chagall and Picasso Headline at Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees, Courtesy of Strauss & Co
In a striking homage to modern art, Strauss & Co brings the iconic works of Marc Chagall and Pablo Picasso to the 2024 Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees, taking place from 28 September to 6 October 2024. This highly anticipated exhibition, hosted at the historic Oude Leeskamer in Stellenbosch, is a must-see for art lovers, collectors, and cultural enthusiasts alike.
Strauss & Co is proud to present these world-renowned artists, whose vividly coloured works will be on public display daily from 10am to 5pm. The exhibition, which includes Chagall’s mixed-media piece La Fenêtre à Paris (estimated at R6 – 8 million) and Picasso’s Tête (also estimated at R6 – 8 million), promises to be the artistic centrepiece of the festival. Both works will feature in Strauss & Co’s prestigious International Auction in Cape Town on 23 October 2024.
Elmarie van Straten, Art Specialist at Strauss & Co, expressed her excitement: “It’s a historic moment for Strauss & Co to present these extraordinary artists at Woordfees. It feels as though we are bringing a piece of Paris to Stellenbosch.”
The Oude Leeskamer exhibition will also showcase works by leading South African artists, giving visitors a sneak peek of Strauss & Co’s upcoming Johannesburg auction in November. To further enhance the experience, Strauss & Co will host a cocktail reception on 30 September, followed by public walkabouts led by Chairperson Frank Kilbourn on 1 October and 3 October at 3pm.
Beyond the exhibition, Strauss & Co is set to engage the public with various events, including:
- Art talks with key figures like collector Lizelle Kilbourn and art critic Sean O’Toole (1 October, 11am).
- Discussions on art collecting trends with experts such as Karel Nel, Hayden Proud, and Lize van Robbroeck (3 October, 11am).
- A vibrant sunset celebration of art, music, and wine featuring musician Karen Petersen (3 October, 5pm).
- A fashion show by acclaimed designer Lezanne Viviers, in collaboration with Strauss & Co, on 4 October at 3pm.
Strauss & Co is not just bringing art to Stellenbosch – it’s enriching the festival experience. The company will host a festival auction titled Speel (Play), running from 25 September to 6 October, featuring works by both established and emerging artists. This online auction will be accompanied by an in-person exhibition at the Stellenbosch Town Hall, with walkabouts scheduled for 30 September and 4 October at 10am.
As a silver sponsor of Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees, Strauss & Co is a key contributor to the vibrant arts and culture landscape of South Africa. Their commitment is further demonstrated in their support for YGGDRASIL: The Breath of Gaia, a collaborative performance between 2024 Woordfees Artist of the Year, Marlene Steyn, and fashion designer Lezanne Viviers. This unique fusion of fashion and art will take place on 4 October, transforming the Oude Leeskamer into a living gallery.
The 2024 Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees will host over 400 productions across 60 venues in and around Stellenbosch, making it a not-to-be-missed cultural highlight.
