X marks the spot: 10 years and 10 unmissable things to do at Solo Studios 2026

Celebrating its 10th year as a hub for art lovers and seekers of rural charm, Solo Studios – the annual intimate celebration of art – has become not only a key event in the Riebeek Valley but also earned its place as a significant art festival in South Africa.

Taking place from Friday 23 to Sunday 25 October, this year’s festival – Solo Studios X – promises more opportunities to engage directly with artists in their studios, more culture (from food to wine to live performance), more strolls down country lanes and something completely new: a commemorative limited edition box of 10 original prints created by renowned local artists, stalwarts of the original Solo Studios event 10 years ago.

“When Solo Studios began 10 years ago, we never imagined the extraordinary community that would grow around it,” said Ashley Stone, co-organiser of the event. “Artists, collectors, visitors, volunteers and our partners have shaped what Solo Studios has become. Solo Studios X is both a celebration of that journey and an invitation to imagine what the next ten years might hold.”

**Here are 10 ways to experience Solo Studios X: **

1. 10 Years, 10 Artists, 10 Boxes

Ten artists from the original group of creatives who helped shaped the festival in its earliest years have each been invited to create 10 original prints, which will form part of 10 curated 10- Year Anniversary Collector’s Boxes. Chosen artists include Emma Willemse, André van Vuuren, Solly Smook, Sharon Bischoff, Wiehan de Jager, Riaan van Zyl, Gordon Williams, Lizette Visser, Tamlin Blake and Kevan Moses. The once-off limited edition boxes were compiled as both an artwork and an archive of the festival’s milestone year and are destined to become collector’s pieces – all available for purchase at the festival.

1. Art and Art Makers

With more than 60 artists, five galleries and numerous exhibitions, art is both the passion and the driving force behind Solo Studios. The core experience remains the intimate connection with artists in their own studios, but there are plenty of other ways to experience a cornucopia of artworks, from new voices to some of South Africa’s most celebrated artists.

Returning from the Deep South is The Collective, a close-knit group of 16 largely mid-career and emerging Kommetjie female artists, including Karen Elkington, Gill Allderman, Laurel Holmes, Kristen Mclarty, Liz Velz and Cathy Stanley. The artists have chosen two themes – Solo in Colour and Where is Home? – from which their works were conceived around on canvas, in sculpture and ceramic, and other media.

Another Solo Studios first is the intergenerational exhibition of Creative Kin Collective, a family collaborative art practice based in Riebeek Kasteel. Artist Wiehan de Jager began creating art with his two children, Jewel and Nathan, when they were very young. Encouraged to draw on anything they could find, make things from whatever was at hand and approach creativity with open minds, their creative play grew into a collaborative art practice. The project gained momentum when the trio was invited to participate in a group exhibition at Rust en Vrede Gallery in Cape Town. The Collective’s works are full of colour, humour and the joyful unpredictability of making together, and a selection of these original works is now available as high-quality fine art prints.

For those wanting to try their hand at art making, two hands-on workshops invite participants to roll up their sleeves and get creative. At a Blue and White Ceramic Plate Painting Workshop with ceramic artist Antoinette du Plessis, participants can design and complete a beautifully finished decorative plate, while acclaimed artist Judy Woodborne will host a Printmaking Workshop exploring drypoint etching, a direct technique that uses an etching needle or craft knife to create images on a perspex plate.

1. Made in Brazil

For the first time, the vibrancy of Latin American art will be represented at Solo Studios. Julia Franco, the Brazilian force behind art and design gallery NOSSO in Sea Point, has curated a collection of handcrafted Brazilian pieces which celebrate the colour, tradition and rich dialogue between contemporary South African and Brazilian creativity. From intricate woodwork and tapestries to bright ceramics and contemporary functional design objects all made in Brazil, the exhibition throws the spotlight on Latino artistic energy and talent.

1. Garden of Edible Delights

New to Solo Studios, The Valley Potager extends an invitation to take a moment and explore the fruits of one man’s gardening vision and labour. The idyllic one-hectare vegetable and fruit garden in the middle of the Riebeek Valley was lovingly designed and created by Jan Seidel in the style of a European kitchen garden. Repurposed from grazing land facing Kasteelberg mountain, the garden has a traditional geometric layout with shaded pergolas and fountains and along its network of paths, you’ll find everything from multi-coloured beetroot to Thai limes and even pineapples. Wander amongst the cut flower garden and brush past artichokes in bloom for a seasonal sensory treat, while taking in the dramatic mountain looming in the background.

1. An Artist and His Eco-Friendly Home – No cement. No ordinary house.

In a rare personal glimpse into the home and work life of a multi-talented and visionary artist, Louis Jansen van Vuuren will conduct an intimate guided walk of his remarkable sustainably-built luxury home and studio in Riebeek Kasteel, known as EcoPlace. He and his partner Hardy Olivier completed this cement-free masterpiece in 2024, which is built entirely out of recycled plastic and fabric, and filled with his work and that of other artists he admires.

Janse van Vuuren is one of South Africa’s most celebrated contemporary artists, dividing his time between Riebeek Kasteel and Le Rembucher in France. He is also a bon vivant and enthusiastic storyteller, which guarantees that the walking tour will be filled with interesting detail and entertaining tales of his life. The walk takes place 24 October. Pre-booking required.

1. When gardens become galleries

Sculpture meets nature in two Riebeek Kasteel garden installations, curated by gallerist and curator Ilse Schermer of Stellenbosch’s IS Art Gallery and the ongoing curator of the magnificent IS Sculpture Garden at Tokara. The sculptural works of such artists as Wilma Cruise, Strijdom van der Merwe and Jackie Lloyd amongst many others will become part of two garden settings: Huis van RAAF and The Valley Potager.

1. Walk, talk, meet the minds behind the work

Art can be experienced in a myriad of ways, other than simply contemplating a painting on a wall. Solo Studios has a rich line-up of Walkabouts and Talks, which add extra depth and context to an art-filled weekend.

Guided walkabouts take place on Saturday, either with a stroll through the village while meeting artists in their own creative spaces, or through spending time in a single studio for a deeper dive.

Another collaboration is that of artists Wiehan de Jager and Clayton Sutherland, who will lead a walkabout through the creative process behind their exhibition of ceramic wall-mounted artworks, vessels and sculptural pieces at Riebeek Valley Wine Co.

Curious about the Valley’s rich architectural history? An Architectural Walking Tour of Riebeek West will be led by renowned architectural historian Dr André van Graan, who will unpack the stories behind some of the village’s most significant buildings and landmarks.

As for talks, an art specialist from Strauss & Co. will lead an engaging talk about the art of art collecting. Whether you are an established collector, an aspiring buyer or simply curious about the world of art, this conversation promises valuable insights into the ever-evolving art market. The fine art auction house will also hold an Art Valuation Day with their own specialists on site.

Early booking is highly recommended for all these events as space is limited.

1. The art of a good dinner

Riebeek Kasteel is a town overflowing with gourmands as well as artists, so it’s no surprise that a Solo Studios highlight is The Night of the Long Tables. Take your pick from several carefully chosen gourmet evenings, each a reflection of a different chef: a modern Japanese long table by Cheyne Morris of SAISEI, a Big Fat Italian Table by Giuseppe or a delicious spread at the iconic The Royal Hotel. It’s an opportunity to eat a lovingly prepared meal, drink some great Swartland wine and make some new friends. Pre-booking required.

1. Swartland Sipping

The Swartland is Big Country not only for art, but for wine, boasting some of the most internationally acclaimed and experimental winemakers in South Africa. Bringing this all together under one roof is Riebeek Valley Wine Co, which will guide participants through a curated selection of their wines.

In between studio-hopping and chats, venture out amongst the Riebeek Valley’s vineyards themselves, for a tasting at Kloovenburg, Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines, Allesverloren Wine Estate and Marras.

1. From classical to cool – the perfect Sunday send-off

When the studio and gallery doors close Sunday afternoon, the weekend gets a musical send-off with The Art of Music, a celebration that brings together the local community with Solo Studios visitors, in the magical setting of The Valley Potager garden. The instrumental classics of a quartet will give way to a community youth project steel band performance, before transitioning into the sounds of DJ Cool J – all accompanied by the wines of the Swartland. Whether you’re a classics lover or dance hall queen, this is a party not to miss. Pre-booked tickets required.

Every year at Solo Studios brings more opportunity and scope to celebrate not only the significance of art to life but also the joy and beauty that exist in this corner of South Africa.

“Solo Studios has never been only about art on walls or sculptures in gardens,” says Ashley Stone, co-organiser of the event. “It is about creating moments of connection – between people and place, artists and audiences, creativity and conversation. There is something very special about experiencing art in the Valley, and we look forward to celebrating this milestone with everyone who has been part of our story.”

**SIDEBAR **

**A Weekend at SOLO Studios **

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a foodie, a culture maven or all three, here is a suggested itinerary that covers all the bases.

Thursday | 22 October

Evening

The Solo Studios experience begins with the Official Opening Event, from 17:30 to 18:30. Reserved for Premier Ticket Pass holders and invited guests, this special evening offers the opportunity to meet participating artists, fellow art lovers, sponsors and guests while celebrating the opening of the 10th anniversary of Solo Studios.

Raise a glass, enjoy the atmosphere, and prepare for an immersive weekend of art.

Friday | 23 October

Discover the Heart of Riebeek Kasteel

Day

Explore Loops A and B, best experienced on foot. Wander through the charming streets of Riebeek Kasteel as artists open their studio doors, offering a glimpse into their creative worlds.

Pause for coffee, browse local shops and galleries, and enjoy a leisurely lunch accompanied by a glass of award-winning Swartland wine at one of the village’s many restaurants.

During the afternoon, join a Solo Studios Talk, where leading voices from the art world share insights and ideas.

Night

Before dinner, stop on the veranda of The Royal Hotel for a classic gin and tonic while watching village life unfold. Then make your way to one of the Nights of the Long Table, where artists and visitors gather around beautifully set communal tables to enjoy exceptional local food, wine and conversation.

Saturday | 24 October

Day

After breakfast, collect your map and set off to discover Loop C.

At 10:30, join one of the popular Walkabouts. Choose between an artist-led tour offering personal insights into selected exhibitions or a fascinating historical walk through Riebeek West with architectural historian Dr André van Graan, exploring the village’s rich architectural heritage.

After lunch, continue your journey through Loops D and E, where more studios, galleries and unexpected artistic discoveries await.

Later in the afternoon, head to The Hub for another inspiring talk, including presentations by Strauss & Co. Learn about the art of collecting, gain valuable insights into the South African art market, and even have one of your own artworks evaluated by their specialist team.

Evening

Experience another Night of the Long Table, each offering its own unique setting, menu and atmosphere, or a simpler meal of country cooking at a local eatery.

Sunday | 25 October

Day

One last wander and the perfect opportunity to revisit your favourite studios and galleries.

At **15:00, **when the studios close their doors, make your way to The Valley Potager for Solo Studios’ traditional closing celebration. With a glass of Swartland wine in hand, settle into the gardens for an afternoon of live music, good company and dance, and a final opportunity to reflect on an extraordinary weekend celebrating creativity, community and the unique spirit of the Riebeek Valley.