What I learned visiting the Investec Cape Town Art Fair

Published 27 February 2025 in Blog

Tanya Krain

Attending the Investec Cape Town Art Fair for the first time was an exciting yet overwhelming experience. With so many galleries, artists, and exhibitions, there was a lot to take in. Here’s what I learned and what you can expect as a  first-timer. 

7 key takeaways 

After experiencing the fair first-hand, here are some lessons that will help make your visit more enjoyable and rewarding: 

Research is key: Before you arrive, take time to go through the event programme and highlight the galleries and talks that interest you the most. With so much to see, having a plan will help you focus on what excites you instead of feeling lost in the crowd. 

Arrive early: The fair becomes busier as the day progresses, making it harder to move freely and engage with exhibitors. Arriving early allows you to take your time, explore at a comfortable pace, and get a better chance to chat with artists and gallerists. 

Don’t try to see everything at once: The sheer volume of art can be overwhelming. Rather than rushing through every section, pick a few areas that truly interest you and immerse yourself in them. This way, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the artworks rather than feeling exhausted halfway through. 

Take notes and pictures: You’ll come across so many incredible pieces that it’s easy to forget details. Keep a small notebook or use your phone to jot down artists’ names, gallery details, and your thoughts on specific works. If photography is allowed, snap a few reference shots to revisit later. 

Attend a talk: The discussions and panels add an extra dimension to your experience. Hearing directly from artists and curators about their inspirations and techniques helps you connect with the artworks on a deeper level. 

Engage with exhibitors: Don’t hesitate to strike up conversations with gallery representatives and artists. They are usually passionate about their work and can offer fascinating insights that aren’t always evident just by looking at the art. 

A second visit is worthwhile: If possible, plan to attend on more than one day. The first visit can be overwhelming, but returning allows you to see things with fresh eyes, catch what you may have missed, and appreciate artworks in a different light.