The Zeitz MOCCA is the largest art museum in Africa, and the largest museum in the world showcasing the art of Africa and its diaspora. The museum is dedicated to researching, collecting, and exhibiting this art, and houses an impressive collection of work from all over the continent.
The exhibition space covers 6,000 square meters over nine floors, with 100 gallery spaces. In other words; set aside at least a full day to visit or see it in chunks.
The museum is housed in an important historical landmark—the old grain silo at the V&A Waterfront. The silos were built in 1921, and for the better part of a century, they were the industrial heart of the harbour area. They were also the tallest buildings in Africa for a long time. The original structure was comprised of 56 storage silos and an adjacent elevator building, and was made a heritage site. The architects working on the museum were tasked with designing a building that would pay homage to this important historical landmark, leaving the outside largely as it was. British designer Thomas Heatherwick said that his team “wondered how we could make a compelling innard, instead of the outside being the memorable space”.
The interior of the building is indeed astounding. It is carved out in the shape of an enlarged grain of corn (based on an actual kernel found before construction began). The result is a series of curved concrete lines, with light pouring in through the cylindrical silo structures, giving visitors a cross-section view of the inner workings of the old industrial structure. It feels cathedral like in places and is worthy of a visit in its own right as a beautifully re- designed industrial space.
The objective was a place that would honour the past, and create an accessible space for all South Africans. The German businessman, Jochen Zeitz, was looking for a museum to house his collection of African contemporary art, and the two visions aligned to create a unique partnership—Zeitz’s collection now forms part of the museum’s collection, and he also funded the project.
The Director and Chief Curator, Mark Coetzee, has led an industrious 25-year long career in the art world and the museum was to showcase Africa’s cultural heritage.
Aside from the stunning array of artwork, you can enjoy the bookshop, a restaurant, reading rooms, and a rooftop sculpture garden. Expect work by acclaimed and award-winning artists like Mary Sibande, Frances Goodman, Kendell Geers, William Kentridge, and Nicholas Hlobo.
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Closed Now!10:00 - 18:00
- Sat10:00 - 18:00
- Sun10:00 - 18:00
- Tue10:00 - 18:00
- Wed10:00 - 18:00
- Thu10:00 - 18:00
- Fri10:00 - 18:00
Some Nearby Listings
The Silo Hotel*****+..
Silo Square, Victoria & Alfred...
Art @ Africa Gallery..
1st Floor, Clocktower Centre, ...
Platandia..
Shop 6, V&A Waterfront, Alfred...
