Zeitz MOCAA: a spectacular museum for contemporary African art
Cape Town is now home to the largest museum on the continent dedicated to contemporary African art. The converted grain silo from the 1920s is an artwok in itself.
Art in the silo
The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA) is spread out over 9,500 square meters, 6,000 of which are earmarked for exhibitions. The Zeitz collection, as well as special temporary shows, will be on display in 80 individual galleries. The former grain silo houses 100 exhibition rooms dedicated exclusively to African art.
'Lightning bird' in the atrium
Cathedral-like, the atrium in the Zeitz MOCAA is a 27-meter-high space marked by long sliced-open silo chutes that resemble organ pipes. Above, the installation "Iimpundulu Zonke Ziyandilenda" by South African artist Nicholas Hlobo shows a South African mythical creature associated with witchcraft - the "lightning bird."
Forever in limbo
German entrepreneur Jochen Zeitz's private collection makes up the lion's share of the permanent exhibition. The installation of cow hides, "Emabutfo" (above), is by Swaziland-born Nandipha Mntambo. The artist, who focuses on identity, the body and gender roles, lives and works in Johannesburg.
Art as weapon
Another art installation that hangs from the ceiling, "Divider" by Lungiswa Gqunta, is made of 130 beer bottles suspended by plastic strings. The young South African artist, whose work explores resistance against apartheid and colonialism, uses everyday items that, when combined, can also become weapons.
Off the street
An entire room is dedicated to Cyrus Kabiru's self-portraits. The series entitled "C-Stunners" show the Kenyan artist wearing various masks and glasses created from objects he found in the streets of Nairobi.
All in one
The image shows detail of a sculpture by South Afcrica's Athi-Patra Ruga titled "Proposed Model for Tseko Simon Nkoli Memorial," a work that veers between contemporary art, fashion and performance. Several large-format paintings by South African painter Penny Siopis are also visible in the background.
New for old
This unnamed metal sculpture by South African Kyle Morland is set up next to the museum restaurant. The young sculptor creates works of art from aluminum, steel and recycled materials to challenge preconceived hierarchies inherent in conversations around material culture.
Rooftop sculpture garden
Zeitz MOCAA's top floor also has a space for outdoor sculptures. Visitors have a prime view of downtown Cape Town and Table Mountain through the convex faceted windows. At a price of 15 euros for an annual ticket, or free admission on some holidays for less frequent visits, the museum is bound to draw crowds from far and near.