The Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees is marking their 25th anniversary with the theme ‘Share’, and with it comes an immersive and curated programme of visual arts that brings together established masters and emerging talents. Take in this extraordinary celebration of South African visual artistry from 11-19 October 2025, and read on to discover the top exhibitions taking place at this year’s festival.
Festival Artists & Daily Exhibitions
The Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees have welcomed Xhanti Zwelendaba and Benjamin Stanwix as the 2025 Festival Artists. These UCT Michaelis graduates have developed a compelling collaborative practice exploring land, landscape, and history in South Africa, and their festival exhibition at the SU Museum anchors the diverse showcase of artists.
Throughout the festival, discover thoughtfully curated displays across multiple venues including the Rupert Museum, Oude Leeskamer, Stadsaal, Blaauwklippen Wine Estate, and Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden. Take guided tours of artist studios and witness creativity in action across galleries and cultural centres throughout Stellenbosch.
Strauss & Co Partnership: Art Auctions & Exhibitions
The festival’s prestigious partnership with Strauss & Co presents two exceptional opportunities to engage with South African art heritage. The Art Auction and Exhibition, curated by award-winning Heinrich Groenewald and Shona van der Merwe, features works by both established and emerging artists. Online bidding opens 10-20 October, with exhibitions at Stellenbosch Town Hall on 11-19 October, 10am-6pm daily.
Meanwhile, the Art and Jewellery Auction’s exhibition showcases fine art alongside exquisite jewellery, celebrating South African craftsmanship. A highlight includes Gerard Sekoto’s Self Portrait, recently returned from the groundbreaking Centre Pompidou exhibition “Paris Noir” in early 2025.
Masterclasses & Educational Programmes
Deepen your art knowledge through the specialist art programmes at Woordfees:
Irma Stern Masterclass
Dr Alastair Meredith, head of Strauss & Co’s art department, offers intimate insights into one of South Africa’s most celebrated artists, exploring her techniques, journey, and lasting impact on our artistic landscape.
Cost: R100. Tickets available on Quicket.
When: 14 October 2025 | 11am – 12 noon
Where: Stadsaal, 26 Andringa St, Stellenbosch Central, Stellenbosch
Wol by die Woordfees
This workshop celebrates South African textile traditions, examining how contemporary artists innovate within established wool work mediums that form part of our cultural heritage.
Cost: R500. Tickets available on Quicket.
When: 17 October 2025 | 3pm – 4pm
Where: Oude Leeskamer, 182 Dorp St, Stellenbosch Central, Stellenbosch
The Art of Collecting
This workshop provides practical guidance for building meaningful collections, understanding market dynamics, and developing a discerning collector’s eye, suitable for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.
Cost: R100. Tickets available on Quicket.
When: 14 October 2025 | 6pm – 7pm
Where: Stadsaal, 26 Andringa St, Stellenbosch Central, Stellenbosch
Contemporary Voices & Historical Narratives
Travelling Sekoto Returns Home
Embark on a moving journey of Gerard Sekoto’s artistic legacy. Led by renowned collector Lizelle Kilbourn, this programme traces the trip of South Africa’s first internationally recognised black artist from local townships to Parisian studios and back into contemporary consciousness. Book here.
Cost: R100. Tickets available on Quicket.
When: 13 October 2025 | 11am – 12 noon
Where: Oude Leeskamer, 182 Dorp St, Stellenbosch Central, Stellenbosch
Unique Experiences
Die Veldhospitaal
This immersive installation aims to challenges conventional exhibition formats, blurring boundaries between visual art, performance, and social commentary. Book here.
Cost: R250 for a half-day ticket. Tickets available on Quicket.
When: 14 – 18 October 2025 | 10am – 10pm | 19 October 2025 | 10am – 6pm
Where: Libertas Farm, Unnamed Road, Die Boord, Stellenbosch
The Studio Visits allows you to see artists at work in their creative spaces and to talk to them about their inspirations, favourite media and passion for art.
Your Cultural Journey Awaits
This comprehensive programme offers multiple ways to engage with South African art – whether you’re a potential collector, student of artistic history, craft admirer, or someone seeking aesthetic inspiration. From commercial auction dynamics to intimate gallery contemplation, from educational masterclasses to challenging contemporary installations, there’s something for every art lover.
Visit the Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees to celebrate 25 years of cultural excellence. Discover, learn, and be inspired by the extraordinary visual arts programme that transforms Stellenbosch into a vibrant canvas of South African creativity.
Website: woordfees.co.za
Email: [email protected]
WhatsApp: 079 256 0398
Facebook: Toyota Stellenbosch Woordfees
Instagram: @woordfees
Our Favourite Theatre Performances at Woordfees
