This weekend is Decorex in Joburg, and we’re excited that this year Garreth van Niekerk and Alan Hayward are the creative directors of the gig (and adjacent 100% Design Africa and Capitec HandmadeAfrica).
Van Niekerk is a well-known writer and curator, and co-founder of design brand Always Welcome, and has a deep interest in African design and culture. We also know that he has a wicked sense of humour and a mind that’s interested in everything around him.
Expect to see his magic touch at the show’s African design pavilions, immersive talks and the likes – and in the meantime, read about what he does when taking a break from the hustle.
What’s the best book you’ve read in the past year? And why?
An African History of Africa by journalist Zeinab Badawi. You can’t help but be moved by the sheer ambition of it. There’s so much we don’t know about this fascinating continent that I love so much, and by taking such a wide look at such a wide subject she opens the door to your own research in such an accessible way. It also taught me about the incredible work that went into Unesco’s The General History of Africa (GHA) – a project that deserves way more attention than it has received.
How do you keep fit?
At the moment it’s going to the gym as often as I can bear, and our daily walks at the Joburg botanical gardens with my partner in life and creativity, Alan Hayward (along with our two Pomeranians Leonardo and Hercules). And then during Decorex we clock about 30,000 steps a day running from one side of the fair to the other.
Weeknight, low‑key restaurant go‑to?
Pablo House in Melville. Best view, best cocktails, best pizza (and coolest owners).
What is the one artwork you’ll always love, and why?
This is an impossible question, but as I write this I’m looking at the painting artist Heidi Fourie did for the cover of the collector’s edition and inside leaves of my book, Veld: The Gardens and Landscapes of Patrick Watson. The journey the three of us took to make them was so special and will always remind me how art can capture those things that are so fragile, impermanent and difficult to communicate with a camera. It started with Patrick heading into the veld and making these huge, outrageous bouquets (something he has loved doing with his mother since he was a child) from veld flowers, which Heidi would then transform into paintings.
Do you have a hobby? What is it?
I’ve been learning to play the violin for the past four years. Learning to read music is one of the most rewarding, and mind‑bending things I’ve ever done. 10/10 recommend.
The one unusual item you can’t live without?
Hyaluronic acid.
Who was your high school celeb crush?
Rudolf Nureyev. I had a signed photograph of him when he performed with Margot Fonteyn framed next to my bed. God bless all my friends and family for loving me.
Three songs that you’d take to a desert island?
The original recording of Jascha Heifetz playing Sarasate’s Zigeunerweisen Op. 20 – to believe in miracles. Ella Fitzgerald’s Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered – for love. Erik Satie’s Gnossiennes – to appreciate and contemplate it all.
Catch Decorex Joburg, running July 24-27 at the Sandton Convention Centre.
Top image: Garreth van Niekerk. Supplied/Trevor Stuurman.
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