Solo Studios: An Intimate Art Encounter at Die Kunshuis

Die Kunshuis is a magnificent retreat in Riebeek-Kasteel that also serves as a space filled with art and creativity. The owners, originally from Port Elizabeth, but currently living and working in Monaco, share a deep passion for South African art which drew them to this small and vibrant town. Today Die KunshuisRK is a hub for the creative, located within an active artist community.

Strukt Architects’ Niel and Ashleigh Basso

The residence is vibrant and beautiful. A colourful exploration of art and local talent which also serves as an open-door art gallery to celebrate the amazing collection of South African art found inside. It’s easy to see why this space was recently showcased at Riebeek-Kasteel’s annual Solo Studios art festival.

The art inspired everything, including the design and layout of the interior. Many of the design decisions were based around the collection. A balance needed to be achieved in creating a space to celebrate art but also serve as the owner’s seasonal home when in town. Architecture, design and even the views were taken into consideration – each adding to the overall look and feel of this modern abode.

The latest exhibition featured 3 Artists…

NICOLA ROOS

Nicola Roos works primarily with recycled inner tyre tubing to bring figures to life that explore our collective perceptions of socio-cultural belonging in the postcolonial age.

WEHRNER LEMMER

Sculptor and designer Wehrner Lemmer’s true inspiration comes from nature. The strict precision working with nature, the shapes, forms and textures he sees and experiences, are duplicated in his artworks.

TREVOR RIZZATO

Trevor Rizzato’s hand built clay pots with inscriptions poke fun at and attempt to find humour in a mad world where he “tries to stay sane”.

The inspiration for the Kunshuis was the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni on Venice’s Grand Canal which houses the Peggy Guggenheim art collection – one of the most celebrated and important museums of 20th-century European and American art.