Zeitz MOCAA: Africa's Largest Contemporary Art Museum
The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa in Cape Town has transformed a historic grain silo into one of the world's most striking cultural institutions.
Arthelia
On the edge of Cape Town's V&A Waterfront, a remarkable transformation has taken place. The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) opened in 2017, converting a century-old grain silo into a cathedral-like space dedicated to African contemporary art.
A Radical Architectural Vision
Designed by renowned architect Thomas Heatherwick, the museum's interior was carved from the concrete tubes of the original silo. The result is an otherworldly space where natural light filters through geometric openings, creating an atmosphere that rivals any museum in the world. The building itself has become an artwork.
Championing African Artists
Zeitz MOCAA houses the world's largest collection of contemporary African art. Artists like El Anatsui, William Kentridge, and Zanele Muholi find their works displayed alongside emerging talents. The museum actively challenges the historical underrepresentation of African voices in global art narratives.
Beyond the Gallery Walls
The institution extends its mission through education programs, artist residencies, and community initiatives. Their Centre for Art Education works to make contemporary art accessible to all South Africans, particularly young people from underserved communities.
A New Chapter for African Art
Zeitz MOCAA represents more than a museum – it signals a fundamental shift in how African contemporary art is collected, exhibited, and understood. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, it offers an essential window into the continent's vibrant creative present and future.
Arthelia
Wildlife photographer and nature enthusiast based in Johannesburg. Capturing the soul of South Africa through the lens for over 15 years.