2025: A Celebration by the Community, for the Community

1 – 4 May 2025

https://www.clarensartsfestival.co.za/

In Clarens, art is everywhere, woven into the fabric of the village. For decades, its breathtaking landscapes have captivated artists, becoming a muse for painters like Pierneef and Gregoire Boonzaaier. Local legends such as Hannetjie De Clerc, Martin Wessels, Richard Rennie, Lyn Hoyle, Simon Addy and Peter Bonney have left an indelible mark on the region’s artistic heritage, capturing its beauty for generations to admire. Today, Clarens continues to be a home and haven for talented artists, with nine galleries carrying on its artistic legacy.

With creativity spilling into every corner of the village, it’s no wonder the idea for an art festival blossomed. This festival wasn’t merely planned; it felt almost inevitable, a tribute to the village’s artistic pulse. The concept of a festival had danced around supper tables and drifted over long restaurant lunches among local creatives for years. Then, after the quiet brought on by COVID, the creative community felt the need for something to reignite the town’s spirit. What could be better than an art festival? Finally, in 2022, it came to life. Clarens is more than just a picturesque destination; it’s a vibrant heartbeat of South African art.

Yet, it’s also more than just a festival – it’s a testament to the spirit of Clarens itself, a collaborative creation powered by the dedication and generosity of local residents who have joined hands to make this event possible, it’s an embodiment of our joint community pride, Afrikaans, English and Sotho. Artists, performers, curators, and technical teams have all contributed their time and expertise, and local businesses have stepped up to offer accommodations and sponsorships. From visionary sculptors to evocative storytellers, the artists of Clarens are not just participants but hosts, welcoming visitors to share in the artistic heritage of this unique village. The festival is a true community initiative, bringing locals together to experience art’s transformative role in fostering connection and understanding. It’s an event that benefits the whole village in all its diversity.

So get ready to experience the heartbeat of South Africa’s vibrant art and culture scene at the Clarens Art Festival, from May 1–4, 2025! This year’s festival combines the best of traditional and contemporary expressions, weaving together the diverse voices and stories of artists from across the country.

What to Expect: A Rich Tapestry of Art, Culture, and Learning

The 2025 lineup spans an incredible range of artistic expression:
Sculpture and Visual Art: Be amazed by displays from celebrated and emerging artists who have created pieces that reflect the soul of South African culture. Explore the exhibits, meet the artists, and perhaps even take a piece of Clarens home with you.

Live Performances: Prepare for an impressive lineup of live theatre, dance, and music performances. From classical sopranos to contemporary rhythms, each show will bring new energy and inspiration to the audience.

Literature and Poetry: Expect a powerful lineup of poets and authors sharing their voices in all three languages, offering rhythms, rhymes, and reflections that bring literature to life.

Hands-On Workshops: The festival will offer a wide array of workshops – pottery, photography, creative writing, pasta-making, and more. Each is led by talented creators, many of whom are local to Clarens, offering a unique chance to learn from the very best. Amongst others Dr. Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha, acclaimed South African actor, will present a talk on storytelling, joined by beloved local storyteller Ollie Esplin.