The Rupert Museum is more than just an art gallery; it’s a celebration of South African creativity and heritage, founded by the vision of Dr. Anton Rupert and his wife, Huberte.
This museum not only preserves but actively promotes the arts, education, and conservation, a legacy started in the 1940s when the couple began their private art collection.
The Birth of a Museum
The story of the Rupert Museum begins with a poignant moment – a fire at the Ruperts’ home in the 1940s, after which Huberte Rupert decided to safeguard their art collection by creating a museum. This decision birthed a space that offers an intimate glimpse into one of the finest collections of Modern South African art, reflecting the couple’s discerning taste and commitment to culture.
A Diverse Collection
Housed in Stellenbosch, the Rupert Museum showcases an array of works from renowned South African artists like Maggie Laubser, Irma Stern, and Alexis Preller, alongside pieces by international figures like Auguste Rodin and Käthe Kollwitz.
The collection includes not only paintings but also sculptures, tapestries, and more contemporary works through the Rembrandt van Rijn collection and the Huberte Goote collection, which features Modern French tapestries and Italian art.
Architectural Harmony
Designed by Hannes Meiring and commissioned by Huberte in 2003, the museum’s architecture blends seamlessly with its surroundings. The building, completed in 2005, embraces the traditional ‘Boland farm architecture’ style, offering a cool, inviting space with whitewashed walls amidst vineyards and oak trees. A renovation in 2018 refreshed the museum while preserving its original aesthetic, introducing a café, workshop studio, and a beautifully landscaped garden.
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Visitor Experience at Rupert Museum
The Rupert Museum is not just about viewing art; it’s an interactive experience. With free entry, visitors can explore four galleries, a small library, and enjoy the outdoor sculpture garden. Free guided tours are available on Wednesdays and Fridays, and the last Saturday of each month turns into “Museum Saturdays,” featuring workshops, talks, and live performances. Whether you’re a walk-in visitor or prefer booking online, there’s always something engaging happening at the museum.
Engagement Beyond the Galleries
The museum’s commitment to education is evident through its MakerStudio, active library, and the vibrant Café, all open to the public. These spaces are designed to foster creativity, learning, and community interaction, making the Rupert Museum a cultural hub in Stellenbosch.
Rupert Museum Open Call to the Public
Rupert Museum: Open Call to the Public
From May 17, 2024, to February 14, 2025, the Rupert Museum invites artists and creatives to submit works inspired by the “AbstRacT – the hidden synchrony” exhibition from the collections of the Huberte Goote Art Foundation and Rupert Art Foundation.
This open call aims to engage with the museum’s permanent collections while offering emerging artists a platform to showcase and sell their work at the Jan Rupert Art Centre in Graaff-Reinet from February to September 2025.
Artists can submit responsive works in any medium, with specific guidelines on dimensions and technical requirements:
- Two-dimensional work: Framed size up to 150 x 150 cm, depth not exceeding 25 cm.
- Three-dimensional work: Maximum size of 250 x 200 x 200 cm, standing freely without ceiling suspension.
- Multimedia and Kinetic Work: Must be compatible with available tech at the venue.
Submissions are electronic, with a deadline of February 14, 2025. Successful artists will be notified by March 3, 2025. All works must be for sale, priced under R65,000.00, with no commission taken by the museum.
Current Status and Reopening
Rupert Museum: Currently, the Museum and Café are closed for maintenance until late February 2025. We will keep everyone updated with the exact reopening date through our social media channels and newsletter, ensuring you don’t miss out on the vibrant art scene at the Rupert Museum.
For more details on the open call and to submit, visit rupertmuseum.org or email open call@rupertmuseum.org.
Contact and Visit Information
Located at Stellentia Road, Stellenbosch Central, the museum welcomes visitors to explore its treasures. For more information or to book a tour, one can visit rupertmuseum.org or contact directly at info@rupertmuseum.org
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