Photographer Trevor Stuurman on the art you can’t skip in Johannesburg and beyond
By Isabella Sullivan
On a mission to change the vision and perception of contemporary Africa, Johannesburg-based photographer Trevor Stuurman is inspired by the people he meets on his travels—particularly around his home country of South Africa. Seeing the world through his camera lens, he’s always looking for subjects brimming with color and creativity, whether people or places in his homeland.
This interview is part of The World Made Local, a global collaboration between the seven international editions of Condé Nast Traveler in which 100 people in 100 countries tell us why their home turf should be your next destination.
You’re all about changing perceptions of Africa. Where in SA would you take a visitor to best show this?
Arrive in Johannesburg, then drive to Cape Town using the Garden Route, or ride the Blue Train.
Where is the most incredible place in SA you’ve photographed that travelers should visit?
Dr. Esther Mahlangu’s home in KwaMhlanga, Mpumalanga.
Where to eat? Breakfast? Lunch? Dinner and drinks?
For breakfast, Arbour Cafe; it’s a little cute restaurant with a courtyard, beautifully tucked away in the Melrose area of Johannesburg. Lunch at Kolonaki in Parkhurst, pre-dinner drinks at Saint in Sandton, and dinner at Les Creatif by Wandile Mabaso.
Where should we shop?
Where should we stay?
I’d recommend Dorp Hotel and The Silo Hotel in Cape Town. Also La Residence and Leeu Manor House in Franschoek. In Joburg, Winston Hotel, The Saxon, and Farmhouse 58.
Where do you go to relax in Joburg?
Nirox Sculptor Park; it’s a little drive outside of Johannesburg. It is an historic area that is recognized as the Cradle of Humankind. Also the Blue Train experience, from Pretoria to Cape Town, is incredible.
Any art hot spots to visit in Joburg?
Head to Botho Project Space for the most amazing contemporary art. Also, visit BKhz, a Black-owned gallery that features young South African talent. If you’re into exploring local music, then give Zoë Modiga, MuNeyi, Yanga Yaya, Que, and Major League a listen.
What’s a happening neighborhood to check out?
If you are in Joburg, Maboneng, Parkhurst, and Melville for good vibes. Krammerville for home and decor. If you’re in Cape Town, then the Silo District for art and decor.
And what are your all-time favorite spots that you return to again and again?
I love art, so for me it would be Esther Mahlangu’s home, Kwa Ndebele, and Zeitz Mocaa—a fantastic contemporary-art gallery. In Cape Town, the Norval Foundation, a charming independent museum.
Follow Trevor Stuurman on Instagram @trevor_stuurman
Read the original article on Condé Nast Traveler.
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