Solo Studios 2025, an arts festival, returns to the scenic Riebeek Valley from October 24 to 26, offering a unique opportunity to experience the intimate connection between artist and audience.
Over the weekend, more than 60 artists will open their studios in Riebeek Kasteel and Riebeek West, sharing their work, creative processes, and personal insights in an immersive celebration of art and culture.
Having become a key event in the South African art scene, this year's platform offers immersive studio visits, curated exhibitions, food experiences, and live music, promising a weekend of inspiration and artistic celebration.
Ashley Stone, co-owner and co-project manager of Solo Studios, tells the Saturday Star about the essence of the festival, highlighting how many dub it as their home.
“Those of us lucky to live and work in this picturesque valley know how inspiring it is, especially to creative people. Solo Studios is an exciting opportunity for our artists to directly share how this inspiration takes form, and for visitors to acquire artwork with a personal connection, along with a healthy dose of country living.”
Stone emphasises the role of the festival in enhancing South Africa’s arts and culture landscape, noting that it provides a vital bridge between rural and urban audiences.
“Solo Studios was born out of a desire to offer a more intimate and authentic way for art lovers to experience creativity, not just by viewing finished works, but by stepping into the private spaces where ideas are born. What began as a small collective of local artists opening their studios to the public has since grown into a nationally recognised event, attracting collectors, curators, and enthusiasts from across South Africa and beyond. Over the years, we’ve expanded the programme to include collaborations, walkabouts, performances, and talks, while still staying true to the founding vision of meaningful, direct engagement between artists and audiences.”
Asked how she sees the platform contributing to South Africa’s broader arts and culture landscape, she said, “Solo Studios has become a bridge between rural and urban art audiences, offering an accessible platform that strengthens South Africa’s cultural economy. By spotlighting both local and national talent in a unique setting, we create opportunities for artists to grow their networks and for collectors to discover new voices. Importantly, Solo Studios also supports tourism and local businesses, reinforcing the idea that arts and culture are powerful drivers of community development and cohesion.”
Stone details that this year promises bold new works, exciting collaborations, and opportunities to discover fresh voices alongside acclaimed names.
“Collectors will be delighted by the calibre of the art on offer, while enthusiasts will be inspired by the sheer creativity that permeates the Valley during the event. Most of all, they can anticipate an experience that goes beyond viewing; it’s about connection, dialogue, and immersion in a vibrant creative community.”
Visitors can also meet a wide range of talented artists, including Louis Janesen van Vuuren, Ardmore, Astrid Dahl, Emma Willemse, Riaan van Zyl, Solly Smook, and Kristen McClarty, among many others. These studio visits provide a rare chance to engage directly with the creators behind the artworks, exploring their inspirations, techniques, and stories.
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
Saturday Star
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