What to do this weekend: See art in the heart of Joburg

Joburg is a fiery hotbed of art for the next month, and it starts with Contra.Joburg this weekend (August 30-31). The event transforms the inner city into a playground of art, design and discovery, and we love it. It’s billed as Joburg’s most radical visual arts festival, and this year’s bold theme – “What if art interrupts you?” – sets the tone for surprise interventions, unscripted encounters and one-of-a-kind experiences.

More than 170 artists, designers and makers will take over rooftops, alleyways, forgotten buildings and galleries across the CBD. “Every artist, every location, and every moment is chosen for its ability to surprise you – to feel like it could only happen here and now,” says Sara Hallatt, founder of Contra.Joburg and director of visual arts organisation the META foundation.

Each day of the festival follows a different route through the city, with a complimentary shuttle looping between venues (included in your ticket). It’s family-friendly too, with dedicated kids’ activities at various stops.

Highlights? Think a visit to the iconic Bag Factory in Newtown to see work by Joburg great Kagiso Patrick Mautloa, behind-the-scenes access to Fhatuwani Mukheli’s studio in Braamfontein, exploring the historic Rand Club, and the rare chance to wander through August House, which has long been home to some of the city’s most exciting established and emerging artists.

Contra.Joburg is more than just fun – it’s also fuel for Joburg’s creative economy. Since launching, the festival has generated nearly R3m in direct art sales, helping artists grow their practices and making collecting more accessible. This year, thanks to a partnership with Africa Collect, buyers can even pay off artworks over 12 months.

Whether you’re a city lover, an art fan, or just looking for something fresh to do in Jozi, Contra.Joburg is the perfect excuse to explore the City of Gold, one artistic encounter at a time.

Kids under 18 enter free. Daily tickets are R120 and a weekend pass is R200. A complimentary shuttle will loop between venues every 20 minutes. Parking is available at all sites.

For more, visit Contra.Joburg on Instagram.

_{Top image: Mark Straw.}