A quick guide to the 2018 Nirox Winter Sculpture Fair

Since its inception six years ago, Artlogic in a partnership with Franschhoek Tourism, has been importing the best food and wine from the Cape into a spectacular country setting in the Cradle of Humankind for NIROX's annual Winter Sculpture Fair.

Taking place on May 12 and 13, this upmarket event (sponsored by American Express) is not just about enjoying fabulous eats, but a visual feast of art too. 

Situated on the western outskirts of Johannesburg, the NIROX Foundation Sculpture Park is a breathtaking, 1,500-hecatre private nature reserve that's dotted with massive artworks, which you can picnic between after checking out NIROX's 2018 winter exhibition. 

WHAT'S ON THE MENU?

Over 40 exhibitors will be selling delicious food and drinks. Highlights include Bovine Restaurant’s gourmet burger, Franschhoek Beer Company’s wide selection of craft beers, Babylonstoren and Holden Manz wines and more.

NOT-TO-BE-MISSED ARTISTS

NIROX's 2018 winter exhibition, entitled Save me from the single story, is inspired by a quote from writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's 2009 Ted Talk, The Danger of a Single Story. It's about what happens when you reduce people and situations to one single narrative.

The exhibition will showcase the works of over 20 local and international female artists in all, including: 

• Yoko Ono; her instruction-based work, Wish Trees for Hope,  is an iteration of her original work, Wish Trees.
• Esther Mahlangu; she'll be presenting a mural on an existing building. It'll feature her characteristic Ndebele patterns of colour and geometric abstraction.
• Lubaina Himid; the Turner Prize-winner will be showing the work Vernet’s Studio, a 26-piece installation featuring representations of artists such as Georgia O’Keefe, Frida Kahlo and Betye Saar.
• Jane Alexander; her installation Security returns to the NIROX Foundation Sculpture Park after showing in 2010. 
• Latifa Echakhch; if her 2015 show, Screen Shot, is anything to go by, her work will be a must-see at this year’s fair.   

YOUR CHEAT SHEET: THE DO’S AND DON’TS

• Although the fair takes place over two days (May 12 and 13), the sculpture exhibition is open until July 29.
• It’s a good idea (especially if you’re a family or group of friends) to book an Uber. It’s a pricey return trip, but split among four or more people, it’s worth not having to worry about limiting yourself to one alcoholic beverage.
• Don’t come to the fair without tickets – you can only gain entry with a ticket purchased online.
• Don’t even try to smuggle booze in a pram (or water for that matter), security will find it and confiscate it.
• Do bring blankets, cushions and dress in layers, as the temperature tends to dip late afternoon.
• For hassle-free payments, download the Masterpass mobile app from iTunes or Google Play. Masterpass payments will be accepted by all food and wine vendors.
• If you’re an American Express cardholder, don’t forget to bring your card along. You’ll get the VIP treatment with a separate entry queue and access to the Amex Lounge on presentation of your card.

EVENT DETAILS

Date: Saturday, May 12 and Sunday, May 13.

Times: 10am – 5pm daily on both days.

Tickets: Buy online at tixsa.co.za for R240 or R220 (early-bird rate for American Express cardholders subject to availability). Children 12 years and under enter for free.

Venue: NIROX Foundation Sculpture Park, 24 Kromdraai Rd, Kromdraai, Krugersdorp.

More info: wintersculpturefair.co.za