Number 6, Part 1: Seeing my city through its Art Galleries, Keyes Art Mile

South African artist Beezy Bailey's cat caught our attention!

I have long neglected being curious about Johannesburg and as a result I have missed out on the explosion of it's art scene and the many interesting galleries and precincts.

As part of my 'hundred different things in 2018' I enlisted my dear friend Martie, who is passionate and knowledgeable about the local art scene, to go on a monthly excursion to visit galleries and exhibitions.

We got started this weekend!

Number 6:

Seeing my city through its Art Galleries, Keyes Art Mile. 

A garden space at Everard Read Gallery

Martie's first pick was the exciting Keyes Art Mile. 

This fringe zone of Rosebank is one of Johannesburg's most visionary art locations, anchored by the Everard Read and Circa Galleries. The Trumpet building which opened in late 2016, is a contemporary space with the SMAC Gallery, design stores, a high-end members club with Pierneef's in the loos and trendy cafes opening out onto the street!

We started our outing at the Everard Read Gallery, Africa's oldest commercial art gallery, open since 1913 and we particularly wanted to see Paula Louw's work as Martie knows the artist from her art classes.

I loved everything about this post modern building, especially its garden spaces. I coveted a bronze and wooden sculpture called 'Sentimental Block' with its humorous bronze Sunlight Soap bar! My virtual spending came to more than a million rand.

Circa Gallery is a contemporary landmark along Jan Smuts Avenue with it's circular form and metal fins. Its top floor has glorious view across the central suburbs too.

Exploring Everard Read and Circa Galleries

All good outings need interesting food options and Keyes Art Mile is anchored by two fascinating places, one the Milk Bar, is a quirky African-retro styled cafe modeled on a similar cafe in Addis Ababa and BGR, a take out burger joint that has totally yummy burger options.