South Africa: Inspiring New Ways

Led by Perrin Lathrop, Assistant Curator of African Art

With James Steward, the Nancy A. Nasher–David J. Haemisegger, Class of 1976, Director

Dramatic landscapes, lush vineyards, and cosmopolitan cities will punctuate this extraordinary ten-day journey through South Africa’s vibrant arts scene. With Museum Director James Steward and curator Perrin Lathrop (PhD, Princeton) as your guides, you will be granted unparalleled access to the art and culture of this dynamic country, revealing why South Africa has become a premier destination for artists and collectors. An array of exclusive experiences—including intimate visits to artist studios and private collections—will introduce you to some of the world-renowned artists and makers who are confronting the country’s complex history and shaping the future of art on the continent.

Your once-in-a-lifetime journey begins in Johannesburg, with its standout skyline, diverse metropolitan population, and thriving cultural landscape. The luxurious Saxon Hotel—featuring an impressive collection of art by over 200 established and emerging South African artists—will be your home for three nights. Situated amid ten acres of magnificent Indigenous gardens, the hotel fuses rich cultural history with contemporary five-star service, including an elevated spa and award-winning restaurants.

While in Johannesburg, your handcrafted itinerary will balance entry to the rich arts landscape with thoughtful explorations of South Africa’s complicated history. Art-focused expeditions will include curator-led tours of the Wits Art Museum and Art on Main—Johannesburg’s vital mixed-use creative hub—as well as private visits to cutting-edge galleries and the studios of artists such as William Kentridge.

A brief flight will transport you to the famed Cape Winelands, where the idyllic Lanzerac Wine Estate—a historic landmark and Stellenbosch icon—will be your home for the next two nights. The majestic mountains, verdant vineyards, and charming Cape Dutch architecture will serve as the backdrop to daily excursions in this enchanting region, with its picturesque wineries, Mediterranean-like climate, and laid-back arts scene.

In the Cape Winelands, private tours of the area’s artistic riches, including the Rupert Museum and SMAC Gallery, will be punctuated by exclusive wine tastings, farm-to-table meals, and visits to meticulously restored wineries and spectacular gardens. A trip to the breathtaking Delaire Graff Estate will include a tour of renowned diamantaire Laurence Graff OBE’s private art collection, a visit to the lovingly landscaped sculpture garden, and an elegant dinner showcasing the estate’s wines—named among the world’s best.

A scenic drive will deliver the group to Cape Town for the final leg of this extraordinary journey. With a blend of stunning landscapes and abundant cultural heritage, it’s easy to see why Cape Town has become a global center for the arts. You’ll spend four nights in the exceptional comfort of the five-star Cape Grace Hotel, situated on a private quay on the V&A Waterfront. Featuring stellar service and a singular location, guest rooms offer unrivaled vistas of Table Mountain, a tranquil yacht marina, or the ever-changing waters of the city’s working harbor. After a day of curated sightseeing, you will be able to savor an expertly prepared cocktail by the serene outdoor pool.

In Cape Town, stops at the region’s most important art museums and artist studios—such as a special after-hours visit to the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, a director-led tour of the Iziko South African National Gallery, and a private visit to the studio of renowned photographer Zanele Muholi—will lay the groundwork for your artistic exploration of the city. During your stay, you will be welcomed into the homes of passionate collectors, sip cocktails in world-class galleries, and dine at some of the country’s finest restaurants—making this a remarkable experience for even the most seasoned traveler.