Zeitz MOCAA | Cape Town

Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) is a leading contemporary art museum located in Cape Town, South Africa. Opened in 2017, the museum is dedicated to contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora, offering a platform for both emerging and established African artists. It is one of the largest and most influential museums of contemporary African art in the world.

History and Location

Zeitz MOCAA is housed in the historic Grain Silo Complex at the V&A Waterfront, a former grain storage facility that was originally constructed in the 1920s. The building itself is a stunning example of industrial architecture and has been transformed into an architectural masterpiece by Heatherwick Studio, led by the renowned British designer Thomas Heatherwick. The museum is part of the broader effort to revitalize the V&A Waterfront, one of Cape Town's most iconic landmarks.

The building retains much of its original industrial charm, with its concrete silos and vast, open spaces serving as a unique backdrop for the modern artworks displayed within. The innovative design includes a series of interconnected galleries that flow around the cylindrical silos, creating an immersive experience for visitors.

Collection and Exhibitions

Zeitz MOCAA’s collection focuses on contemporary African art, exploring a range of mediums, styles, and themes. The museum holds over 1000 works of art by more than 200 African artists, including paintings, sculptures, installations, photographs, and video art. The collection spans a wide range of genres and reflects diverse cultural and historical perspectives from across the African continent and its diaspora.

The museum aims to provide a dynamic platform for African artists, with a particular emphasis on contemporary African identity, social and political issues, and the intersection of traditional and modern influences.

Notable Artists in the Collection:

El Anatsui (Ghana) – Known for his large-scale sculptures made from bottle caps and other recycled materials.

Yinka Shonibare (Nigeria/UK) – His work explores themes of race, colonialism, and identity, often through vibrant, intricate installations.

William Kentridge (South Africa) – Renowned for his drawings, animated films, and performances, Kentridge’s work often addresses themes of history, memory, and politics.

Zanele Muholi (South Africa) – A celebrated photographer and visual activist, known for her powerful images of the LGBTQIA+ community in South Africa.

Njideka Akunyili Crosby (Nigeria/USA) – Known for her mixed-media paintings that explore issues of cultural identity and the African diaspora.

Architectural Design and Space

The design of the Zeitz MOCAA building is as much a part of the museum’s appeal as the art it houses. The museum’s conversion of the Grain Silo Complex into an art space was a major architectural project that maintains the integrity of the building’s industrial past while introducing modern design elements. The silos were hollowed out to create dramatic, open galleries, and the museum’s signature features include the interior atrium that runs through the center of the structure.

Key architectural features include:

The Atrium: A central open space that showcases the striking cylindrical silo structure, allowing visitors to gaze upward through the building’s levels.

The Spiral Staircase: A large, sweeping staircase that connects the museum’s various levels, adding to the museum’s grand, open design.

The Rooftop Sculpture Garden: The museum also has an outdoor rooftop space that offers panoramic views of the V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain, and the surrounding Cape Town cityscape. The sculpture garden provides a stunning setting for large-scale outdoor installations and works of art.

Museum Spaces and Features

Galleries: The museum features 12,000 square meters of exhibition space, with multiple galleries spread across several floors. These galleries host rotating exhibitions of contemporary African art, with both permanent and temporary displays.

The Atrium and Vertical Gallery: One of the most striking features of the museum is the vertical gallery that flows around the silo structure. This open space connects the various floors and provides a dramatic backdrop for exhibitions.

Museum Shop: The Zeitz MOCAA museum shop offers a curated selection of art books, prints, jewelry, and handcrafted items from across Africa, allowing visitors to take home a piece of African creativity.

Educational Programs: Zeitz MOCAA is committed to fostering dialogue and engagement with the public through a variety of educational programs. These include workshops, lectures, and community outreach initiatives, aimed at introducing contemporary African art to a broader audience.

The Auditorium: The museum has an auditorium that hosts a variety of cultural events, including film screenings, performances, and panel discussions, often centered around themes of African art and culture.

The Zeitz MOCAA Foundation

The museum is owned and operated by the Zeitz MOCAA Foundation, which was established by Jochen Zeitz, a German businessman and philanthropist who made a significant donation to the museum's establishment. Zeitz, who is the former CEO of Puma and the founder of the Zeitz Foundation, is passionate about supporting contemporary African art and culture. His foundation has played a crucial role in establishing Zeitz MOCAA as one of Africa’s leading art institutions.

Visitor Experience

Zeitz MOCAA is a must-visit destination for art lovers, cultural tourists, and anyone with an interest in contemporary African art. The museum offers an immersive experience that combines world-class exhibitions with the opportunity to explore the historic architecture of the Grain Silo Complex.

Key Highlights for Visitors:

Explore Contemporary African Art: The museum provides an opportunity to discover and engage with the diverse, thought-provoking works of African artists.

Engage with Cultural Programs: Participate in lectures, workshops, and community events that explore the intersection of art, culture, and social issues.

Stunning Views from the Rooftop Garden: Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding areas, including Table Mountain, while exploring the outdoor sculpture garden.

Shop for Unique Artworks: The museum shop is an excellent place to purchase art books, prints, and handmade items from African artists and artisans.

Conclusion

Zeitz MOCAA is more than just a museum—it is a cultural hub that celebrates Africa’s rich artistic heritage while shaping its contemporary art scene. With its exceptional collection of African art, innovative architecture, and engaging cultural programs, Zeitz MOCAA is a key player in Cape Town’s vibrant cultural landscape. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking to experience Cape Town from a different perspective, a visit to Zeitz MOCAA offers a profound and enriching experience.