An Abundance of Quality Art at Durban’s Art Galleries

With its temperate climate and laid-back vibe, Durban is one of South Africa’s top holiday destinations. In addition to its spectacular beaches and entertainment options, Durban is a hub of culture with a host of museums and art galleries to explore, including the Natural Science Museum, Killie Campbell Africana Museum, the Old Court House Museum, Natal Maritime Museum, Artisan Gallery, Fat Tuesday, KZNSA, the Dodds Gallery, the Elizabeth Gordon Gallery, the BAT Centre and the artSPACE durban gallery.

Located in a refurbished house dating back to 1926 in Florida Road, Morningside, the Artisan Gallery features a wide selection of South African artwork that includes fine art, sculptures, hand-crafted glass, cutlery, ceramics, beadwork, jewelry, textiles, woodwork and more. Run by John and Ingrid Smith, the Artisan (Art In South Africa Now) gallery is a offers a welcoming atmosphere that encourages browsing and has something to suit almost every taste.

Also located in Florida Road, the Elizabeth Gordon Gallery has been exhibiting and selling art in Durban for almost 30 years, with the focus on original works by renowned and emerging South African artists. The gallery hosts regular exhibitions, such as the upcoming group exhibition entitled The Year of the Horse which opens on the 1st of October, 2014. Artists whose work is featured at the gallery include Bruce Backhouse, David Tomlinson, Barbara Siedle, Hugh Mbayiwa, Hussein Salim, Lisa Strachan, Nicole Pletts, Peter Croxon, Scott Bredin, Sue Martin and Wim Rautenbach.

Situated in the picturesque Durban suburb of Kloof, Fat Tuesday offers a variety of arts and crafts, both traditional and contemporary. Eye-catching photographs adorn the walls alongside original paintings and prints of renowned artworks, such as Tretchikoff’s ‘Green Lady’. Beadwork, sculptures, woodcarvings and ceramics add to the eclectic selection of items on display and for sale.

artSPACE durban offers both exhibition and studio space to local and foreign artists in a warehouse in the centre of the city. This creative space opened its door in 2003 and has hosted more than 150 solo and group exhibitions. It is a vital platform for emerging artists to showcase their work to the public and to network with other artists in the bustling, vibrant city of Durban.