The new cool neighbourhoods on the block

Art is as much a part of South Africa’s DNA as Madiba, shisa nyama, rugby and Rooibos tea. In fact, the local arts and design scene has become so prominent in Mzansi that it’s given birth to cool, creative neighbourhoods around the country. These are the areas where the design, décor and art lovers live or flock to for fresh inspiration.

So, if you have an appreciation for arts and culture or you're looking for creative brilliance, enter one of these creative neighbourhood into your car’s GPS now!

Maboneng District, an offshoot of the famous Arts On Main, has firmly established itself as the place to be with the local art scene in Gauteng. On any given day, you’ll find Johannesburg’s top creatives, musicians, hipsters, artists and those looking for a muse right here. In addition, the ever-growing hub of retail, office and residential spaces place this ultra cool, ultra hip neighbourhood at the epicentre of Jozi’s inner-city renaissance.

Get inspired at: Museum of African Design (MOAD), Africa's first dedicated design museum; The Bioscope, one of SA’s only independent cinemas; Neighbourgoods Market (Saturdays only); the awe-inspiring rooftop bar at The Living; and the 40-metre mural of Nelson Mandela as one comes into Maboneng.

While this Joburg suburb doesn’t necessarily have the hipster appeal of Maboneng, art is very much a priority here. This area is home to some of SA’s most renowned galleries – in fact, Jan Smuts Avenue has become known as Joburg’s Art Strip. The fact that some of Gauteng’s most loved restaurants are found in 7th Avenue of Parkwood doesn’t hurt either.

Get inspired at: Gallery MOMO, renowned for showcasing new work by local and international artists; The Goodman Gallery regularly showcases artists who are affecting social change; and David Krut where one can find original work and, often, prints from some of SA’s most contemporary artists. And make sure you grab a bite to eat at The Wolfpack where creativity abounds in food and décor.

This pretty Pretoria neighbourhood decorated with leafy green trees is fast rising as one of Gauteng’s sought-after creative hubs. You will also find a number of trendy restaurants and bars, quaint shops and exclusive accommodation here. Not to mention that it close to Pretoria’s National Botanical Gardens, Faerie Glen Nature Rserve and Groenkloof Nature Reserve.

Get inspired at: Pretoria’s Art Museum where SA’s legendary artists, including Pierneef, are exhibited; The Chris Tugwell Gallery which features an extensive range of sculptures; and the Hazelwood Food Market (Saturdays only).

On any given day in the Mother City, these two parallel-running roads and the adjoining side streets are abuzz with locals and tourists who are checking out the many galleries and trying out the hottest restaurants in town. And while this area is in the heart of the Central Business District, it is also a popular residential spot for city slickers.

Get inspired at: Youngblood Arts and Culture Development, where you can catch work from new, up and coming local artists; the 99 Loop Street art gallery which showcases a variety of emerging and established artists; and Brundyn + Gonsalves, where collectors are said to go for the latest in contemporary art. Don’t forgo refuelling at one of the many restaurants and bars in the area like Clarkes, Bar-Dough and Villa 47.

Don’t be fooled, this little “dorpie” is not only a historical student town. Stellenbosch is rich in art history and a favourite amongst contemporary artists who either live here or come here for inspiration. In fact, one can view the works of internationally acclaimed South African sculptor Dylan Lewis all across town.

Get inspired at: the Rupert Museum is an absolute must for any art enthusiast as it showcases the private collection of South African billionaire Anton Rupert; SMAC gallery, situated in the historical De Wet’s building which celebrates established and emerging local and international artists; Die Moederkerk (The Dutch Reformed Church) in Drosdy Street which is home to South Africa’s most impressive stained glass windows which were created by local artist Leo Theron.

The area between the Durban International Convention Centre and the beachfront, better known as Rivertown Precinct, is fast becoming a hive of creative splendour thanks to a rejuvenation project by the same people who are responsible for Maboneng. It’s firmly established as the new "it" spot amongst Durban’s architects, artists, creatives, change-makers and cool kids.

Get inspired at: Durban’s Art Gallery (DAG), situated in the historic City Hall, is renowned for the diverse artworks it showcases; the Also Artisan Art Gallery which features interesting proudly African works made from techni-coloured thread woven through fabric; and the Morning Trade Venue, a market that operates on Sundays, encouraging people to shop for local craft foods and, then, to enjoy it as a picnic on the lawn outside the hall.

A write up about South Africa’s creative communities would be incomplete without the mention of Route 47. This interesting trail features 67 public art works (both contemporary and historical) symbolising Nelson Mandela’s 67 years of fighting for the freedom of South Africa. The artwork is not all historical in context – there are some works speaking to a thriving current and future PE and South Africa. 

Get inspired at: While the entire route is highly recommended, highlights include Talking Woman 3 that features maps of PE from different times; the Mosaic Stairs that symbolise a journey that started in darkness and turbulence to end in hope and new beginnings; and the Election Queue/Votes of the Future that represents the queue of people who voted in 1994. Keep in mind that this art journey becomes more impactful when reading and embracing the stories that accompany every piece.