>> page 6 SAFE, CLEAN, CARING AND OPEN FOR BUSINESS CITY VIEWS YOUR FREE CAPE TOWN CENTRAL CITY PAPER December 2013 / January 2014 www.capetowncid.co.za Celebrate NEW YEAR’S EVE on the Grand Parade Hunt down UNIQUE BUYS to be found in the CBD Cape Town SUMMER MARKET gears up for a festive season >> page 4 >> page 7 remembering MADIBA... in the Cape Town Central City
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Safe, Clean, Caring and Open fOr BuSineSS
CityViewsYOUR FREE CAPE TOWN CENTRAL CITY PAPER December 2013 / January 2014
www.capetowncid.co.za
Celebrate NEW YEAR’s EvE on the Grand Parade
Hunt down UNIqUE bUYs to be found in the CbD
Cape Town sUmmER mARkET gears up for a festive season
>> page 4 >> page 7
rememberingMadiBa...
in the Cape Town Central City
CityViews December 2013/January 20142 town
City Views is a free commu-nity paper published by the Central City Improvement
District. It is our vision to en-sure that the Cape Town CBD
is Safe, Clean, Caring and Open for Business for all who use the Central City, whether they live, work or play here,
or are passing through.
SAVE THESE NUMBERS ON YOUR PHONE
If you live or work in the Central City Improvement District, be sure to save
these numbers on your phone.
CCID 24-hour hotline number:
082 415 7127
SAPS Control Room: 021 467 8002
CCID Social Department: 082 563 4289
You can also Tweet us:
@CapeTownCID
or Facebook us www.facebook.com/
CapeTownCCID
and follow our “Give Responsibly” campaign
www.facebook.com/GiveResponsibly
CityViews
DisclaimerWhile every effort is made to
ensure the accuracy of all content, the publisher takes no responsibil-ity for the accuracy of statements
or content, and can accept no liability for errors, omissions or
inconveniences arising thereof. All text, images and design is subject
to copyright and any unauthorised duplication is prohibited. All work is accepted in good faith that all permissions have been granted.
Distributing City views
If you’re interested in receiving copies of City Views for distribu-tion, please send us your contact details, address and how many
copies you need each month and we will consider making you a distributor. Or, if you would just
like to fi nd out where you can ob-tain a FREE copy, email Aziza on
in the Cape Town Central City? Are you planning an event or an
exhibition? Would you like to write a letter to the editor or let us know what you would like to see in City Views? We would love to hear from you so email Aziza on
Just as we were putting this issue to bed, we heard the sad news that Nelson Mandela had passed.
And it struck us: how do you say goodbye to an icon? Then it dawned on us that Madiba is still here: he’s in the footprint he’s left on the Central City — his appearance on the balcony of the City Hall in 1990; his years leading the country from Parliament; the Foundation that bears his name and the building that houses it. His image and memory are woven into the very fabric of our downtown.
So, on page 3, we celebrate Madiba in the Central City and remind you of the many places where you will always be able to fi nd him, feel him, and remember him.
And even though we are sad, we also celebrate a special time of year, one that — this time around in particular — will remind us how important it is that we are with those we hold dear and with whom we want to create new memories. For us, the Cape
Town Central City is a wonderful place in which to make those memories. Summertime brings long days spent at outdoor cafes or a stroll down our beautiful streets, lined with some of the most unique offerings to be had. On pages 4 and 5 we’ve chosen a selection of these.
This month will also see the City hosting a New Year’s Eve party on the Grand Parade to ring in Cape Town’s 365 days as World Design Capital 2014. And it’s also the time of year when we launch our annual free publication, the Best of Cape Town Central City guide, which you’ll be able to fi nd in hardcopy at outlets across the CBD or by contacting our offi ce. The guide appears online as well (visit www.capetowncid.co.za/our-work/communications/best-of-the-cape-town-central-city-guide/). Plus we’ll be distributing it once again in the CBD with the December edition of The Big Issue. If there’s a venue you’re looking for within our boundaries that you
can’t fi nd in the guide, remember you can do a search for it on our website (www.capetowncid.co.za) under our “Explore our CBD” section.
Refl ecting back, 2013 saw us achieve our 13th year of clean fi nancial audits (see our latest annual report at www.capetowncid.co.za/about/annual-reports), and a sample of what we’ve been busy with over the past year appears in our dashboard below.
This year we also achieved a number of “fi rsts” in the CBD, and indeed in South Africa, often together with our partners, namely SAPS and the City. It’s with the latter that we shared a “fi rst” when Muneeb Hendricks, manager of our Safety & Security Department, became one of the fi rst 32 graduates of the City’s Special Law Enforcement auxiliary offi cer squad. These offi cers have full peace offi cer status and can enforce bylaws, and we congratulate the City on this initiative.
Another “fi rst” is that the CCID now has a dedicated Facebook
A dashboard outlining just some of the work of the CCID as reported in our most recent Annual Report:
What have we done for you over the 2012/2013 fi nancial year?
page (www.facebook.com/CapeTownCCID ) where we post daily updates on news and happenings in the CBD. You can also follow or tweet us on Twitter (@CapeTownCID). Plus remember to put our 24/7 CCID hotline number into your cell (082 415 7127).
In the meantime, and until our next issue, have a hot, happy and above all safe and secure festive season in the Cape Town Central City.
Tasso EvangelinosCOO of the CCID
URBAN MANAGEMENT
WASTE REMOVED USING MECHANICAL SWEEPERS:
20 210 kgs
WASTE REMOVED BY J&M CLEANING TO
LANDFILL:
802 tons
DRAINS CLEANED:
1743
279 CCID CIGARETTE BINS CLEANED amounting to:
1 095 kgsof cigarette butts
ROAD MAINTENANCE REPAIRS UNDERTAKEN:
1 482
ROAD MARKINGS PAINTED:
255
INCIDENTS OF GRAFFITI REMOVED:
1 518
ILLEGAL POSTERS IDENTIFIED:
8 353
STRINGS & STICKERS REMOVED:
12 138
22 ILLEGAL DUMPING FINES ISSUED: amounting to
R22 000
SECURITY
RENDERED MOTOR VEHICLE ASSISTANCE
376 times
WARNINGS ISSUED:
37 523
RESPONDED TO MEDICAL AND RESCUE CALL OUTS
227 times
ILLEGAL TRADING OFFENCES DEALT WITH:
138
ARRESTS MADE TOGETHER
WITH OUR PARTNERS:
2 268
RENDERED PUBLIC ASSISTANCE
1 314 times
CRIME PREVENTION INITIATIVES CONDUCTED:
127 752
PARKING-RELATED FINES ISSUED:
11 842 amounting to
R4 800 000
293 CLIENTS WERE ASSISTED/REFERRED TO SHELTERS, INCLUDING;
91 adults received services at shelters
17 adults assisted to health care
facilities
40 adults referred to Straatwerk for an
employment opportunity
58 adults reunited with family
8 mothers with children assisted
87 childrenassisted through
preventative services
586 PAIRS OF NEW SHOES WERE DISTRIBUTED
2000 CARE BAGS AND
600 CHRISTMAS BAGS
DISTRIBUTED
SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
COMMUNICATIONS
R8 703 017 IN PR VALUE GENERATED FROM 252 ARTICLES
AND INTERVIEWS, AMOUNTING TO OVER
81 million exposures
saying goodbye to an ICON
about
3 town December 2013 /January 2014 CityViews 3 about
Useful numbers in the Cape Town CBD
Here are the numbers for services offered by the CCID’s
partners in the Central City (namely SAPS and the City
of Cape Town), as well as our own 24-hour number. Be sure to put these into your phone
or scan the QR codes directly.
Refuse Collection, Water Issues, Street Lights and Electricity
0860 103 089
Cable Theft
0800 222 771
Prepaid Electricity
Meters
0800 220 440
Metro Police
0860 765 423
Law Enforcement
021 596 1999 (24 hrs)
Alcohol & Drug Helpline
0800 435 748
Social Development:
Children
0800 220 250
Social Development:
Adults
0800 872 201
Disaster Risk Management
080 911 4357
/ 021 597 6000 (24 hrs)
Traffi c Signal Faults
0860 001 948
Traffi c Police
0860 765 423
SAPS Central City
021 467 8001/2
(24 hrs)
Emergency Ambulance,
Health, Noise & Fire
107 (landlines) /021 480 7700 (24 hrs)
082 415 7127(24 hrs)
CCID Safety and Security
As you enter the CBD, one of the fi rst things you currently notice is a giant artwork of Nelson Mandela on the Civic Centre, promoting the Nelson Mandela Legacy public exhibition on the Concourse level of the same building. The instal-lation was no easy feat to under-take: from the original A3-sized drawing, a high-defi nition scan was produced to upscale it. This was in turn cut into 660 separate pieces for individual windows, and a team of abseilers took four days to complete the task of putting it into place.
The multimedia exhibition inside the building is a celebration of all things Madiba. Chronicling his childhood through to his mature years, the display pays tribute to the former freedom fi ghter and in-spires locals to emulate his legacy and engage more with the city.
The exhibition is just one of the examples of how this great states-man is revered in the Central City. Buildings, statues, art, crafts and installations throughout the CBD offer so many opportunities to re-connect with the iconic leader and
remind us constantly to uphold his vision of nation-building and com-passion.
Madiba will forever be linked with our iconic City Hall located on the Grand Parade to the west of the Castle. Only hours after leav-ing Victor Verster Prison in Paarl, on 11 February 1990, Mandela made his fi rst public speech after his release, speaking from its bal-cony. The City Hall is currently em-blazoned with massive banners of Madiba in a year-long City of Cape Town celebration originally of his legacy, and which has now coin-cided with his passing.
As South African leader between 1994 and 1999, Mandela spent many years presiding over par-liament. Today, the public is wel-come to come inside and observe the fl oor where the fi rst democrati-cally elected president delivered many of his historic speeches. And just outside the building, at the Roeland Street entrance, a pile of stones has collected over the past few months, the evidence of Cape-tonians wishing ever hopefully for his recovery.
Mandela rhodes place in Burg Street is an amalgation of four historic old buildings that have been restored around a modern tower block. Housing residential as well as hotel accommodation, the building is also home to the Mandela rhodes foundation which has seen over 200 scholars assisted in the fi rst 10 years of its existence. The atrium of the build-ing boasts a monumental chicken wire art statue of the great man (seen on the cover of this issue), made by Masimba Jefta (Jeff) Mwazha. Jeff is just one of many highly talented craft producers
madiba magicAlong with the rest of South Africa, Cape Town
has lost a father. Nelson Mandela – Tata Madiba – will be mourned as long as he is remembered. But while he may have left us in body, his spirit can be
seen throughout the Central City, both in images that are transient as well as those that form part
of the everyday landscape of the downtown.
This article is a special feature marking the passing of Madiba. Our usual “City Views welcomes” section will return in our February/March 2014 issue.
The Central City’s
about
and designer makers whose beau-tiful handmade works have been inspired by the great statesman.
From a good Central City vantage point – like the tenth fl oor of The Terraces on Bree Street, where the CCID offi ces are situated – you can view robben island. It is here that Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years of his incarceration.
And of course, every year on his birth,18 July, the spirit of Mandela is evoked when Capetonians dedi-cate 67 minutes of their time to a good cause. This year, volunteers from the CBD got involved in eve-rything from helping in Central City soup kitchens to dropping off blankets at the Cape Town Tourism Visitor Centre. At the Civic Cen-tre, the Mayor, city staff and DHL Stormers rugby team partnered with FoodBank South Africa to package donations into hampers.
As Nelson Mandela himself once said: “In Cape Town resides part of the souls of many nations and cul-tures, priceless threads in the rich diversity of our African nation.”
Madiba could just as well have been describing his own connec-tion with the Central City, which will continue to hold him in its soul as its people appreciate the legacy he has left behind.
Many of the images that appear in City Views as well as in the CCID’s latest Annual Report, are captured by freelance Cape Town-based photographer and author, Ed Suter. Ed is the creative talent behind the published collection Sharp Sharp which looks at great style on the streets of Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town. As a result of this work, he was invited by the Parisian arts centre, La Gaite Lyrique, to take part in a month-long celebration in which four photographers participated, projecting their images in the gallery each for one week of the month; the other photographers were Liam Lynch, Zanele Muholi and Roger Ballen.
Of the event, Ed says: “It was incredible: it was a real honour to be part of this event and I was particularly pleased to exhibit pictures abroad that showed a South African city, and the colour and style to be found there.” For more information on Ed Suter and his work, visit http://edsuter.com
CCID’s roving photographer exhibits in Paris
Clockwise from bottom left: Abseilers install Madiba’s image on the side of the Civic Centre; Arnold Smith of the CCID participating in 18 July; the City Hall from where Madiba addressed South Africa in 1990; his image appears throughout the Central City on craftsmen’s work.
CityViews December 2013/January 2014around4 town
sPECIALIsT sHOPsTucked along pedestrianised lanes and inside arcades, are shops run by individuals who are just passionate about what they do.
The African Music Store From hip hop to reggae, choral music to drumming, you’ll fi nd the whole spectrum of music from the continent in this shop adorned with posters signed by famous African musicians. Discover unknown, up-and-coming musicians or purchase the top seller, a double CD called The Great South African Trip.134 Long Str, 021 426 0857, www.africanmusicstore.co.za
Caroline’s Fine Wines This store has been in the Cape Town CBD since 1997, and is run by owner Caroline Rillema. A huge range of over 1 500 South African wines to suit all pockets, plus an extensive stock of European brands. Enjoy on-site events, tastings and advice from the knowledgeable staff. Matador Centre, 62 Strand Str, 021 419 8984, www.carolineswine.com
FAsHION, bAUbLEs & bLINGFestive outings are a good excuse to treat the family to some new clothes or seasonal accessories.
Kalila Bright semi-precious stones and rolled gold for earrings, rings and necklaces, handmade by Keelin Pincus, who is inspired by the adornments she found in Israel, India and Madagascar. Keelin also advises on the healing and gemmological signifi cance of the stones. 219 Bree Str, 083 254 1000, www.kalila.co.za
Lucky Fish Funky, locally made T-shirts and accessories such as sunnies and belts. 43 Long Str, 021 422 3801
Mungo and Jemima WIth styles to suit the more discerning shopper, owner-designers Kirsty Bannerman and Marian Park-Ross offer their own labels, Coppelia and Good, as well as labels such as Dear Dorothy, Love Water Love and Unknown. Pair with
bags, jewellery and shoes from local brands like FSP, Skermunkil and Goodie Two Shoes. Cnr Long and Church
Strs, 021 424 5016, www.mungoandjemima.com
Second Time Around Join collectors sourcing vintage wear, and select your own gently worn one-offs. This shop has been around for over 40 years. Search through racks of dresses, rows of boots, handbags in all shapes and sizes, crazy hats and trousers in a variety of styles. 196 Long Str, 021 423 1674
Missibaba/Kirsten Goss This is where leatherwear and beautiful jewellery combine in Chloe Townsend’s leather label, Missibaba, and Kirsten Goss’ intricate and detailed jewellery. Choose investment pieces that will last long beyond the New Year. 229 Bree Str, 021 424 3453, missibaba.com, www.kirstengoss.com
Mali South Bright, beaded African clothing that brings old traditions to zingy new life. Tailoring services are available if you want your own bespoke piece. 92 Long Str 021 426 1519
Olive Green Cat This collaborative design studio is shared by established jewellers Ida Elsje and Philippa Green. Choose from girly and delicate fl oral-inspired pieces, or zingy perspex. 76 Church Str, 021 424 1102, www.olivegreencat.com
Philip Zetler JewellersEstablished over half a century ago, this shop buys, sells, designs and manufactures. It specialises in certifi ed diamonds and Kruger rands; watch and antique jewellery collectors could fi nd a prized piece. 54 St George’s Mall, 021 423 2771, www.philipzetlerjewellers.co.za
Pierre-Estineer Designers & Engravers Bling with an urban edge… this is where the young and beautiful go for rings, cuff-links, monogrammed bracelets and pendants. 59a Long Str, 076 270 6372 pierre-estienne.com
Prins & Prins This studio is situated in the grand old Huguenot House, an authentically restored 18th century building. Find classically elegant or show-stopping designer pieces at this family-owned business. Take in their Museum of Gems and Jewellery showcasing South Africa’s rich diamond history. Huguenot House, cnr Loop and Hout Strs, 021 422 1090, www.prinsandprins.com
Woodhead’sThis leather company has been around since 1867 so it really knows it’s business. It stocks not only game skins and swatches of leather (if you feel like undertaking your own leatherware projects) but it also has a great range of fi nished goods from sheepskin boots to bags and wallets. 29 Caledon Str, 021 461 7185, www.woodheads.co.za
Hot shops The Central City is jam-packed with working studios, street markets and owner-run shops stocked with bespoke products that you would struggle to fi nd in your average shopping mall, making Cape Town’s “downtown” a must-visit for gifts with a difference. With over 1 200 retail experiences in the CCID area, here follows a selection of just some of these – be sure to visit our website (www.capetowncid.co.za) to fi nd more!
mADE WITH LOvE The unique beauty of handmade, and the knowledge that you are supporting local craft producers and small businesses, adds extra cachet to giving. Try these CBD outlets for products with heart:
African Home Crafts A fantastic array of craft products, each made from beads, wire, metal and recycled materials and paired with the story of its creator. This is a great place to fi nd quirky Christmas decorations. 41 Caledon Str, 021 461 1700,www.africanhome.com
The Gallery Shop A wonderfully quirky spot to fi nd local, made-by-hand items — everything from linen ware to bowls made from beads, as well as a variety of accessories. 48 Church Str, 021 424 0517
Mogalakwena Craft Art Gallery Mogalakwena (meaning “fi erce crocodile”) showcases a project that economically uplifts Pedi women, offering innovative, contemporary designs behind a great cause: embroidered soft furnishings, bed and table linen and beaded items, with unique textiles and textures. 3 Church Str, 021 424 4512, www.mogalakwena.com
Skinny Laminx Illustrator and designer Heather Moore’s prints take pride of place on textiles – to buy on their own, or made up into cushion covers, aprons, tea towels, purses and even children’s clothing. 201 Bree Str, 021 424 6290, www.skinnylaminx.com
African Image African artefacts and crafts, purchased at source. From fun, bright accessories such as fashion bags and wire baskets to woven textiles and wooden vessels.Cnr Church and Burg Strs, 021 423 8385, www.african-image.co.za
Urban Rural Growers Emporium (Urge) Urge is a synergy of urban and rural living and food — a centrally situated convenience store, coffee shop, wine bar and deli with gourmet street food. Fresh produce and wine sourced from local farmers in and around Cape Town are available for the eco-aware. 6 Buiten Str, 021 424 4951, www.urgecapetown.co.za
Honest Artisan ChocolatePure, old-school chocolate handmade in Cape Town from raw (unroasted), organic Ecuadorian cacao sweetened with agave nectar — sold in a beautiful old shop with wooden fl oorboards, an ancient cash register and fi ttings that hark back to yesteryear. Packaging designed by local artists. 66 Wale Str, 021 423 8762, www.honestchocolate.co.za
Sturk’s Tobacconists Hand-blenders of individual smoking mixtures and stockists of cigars, pipes, papers, matches and more, Sturk’s has been doing brisk business since 1793. Customers have included governors of the Cape and state presidents. 54 Shortmarket Str, 021 423 3928, www.sturkstobacconists.co.za
01
03
These venues and a whole bunch more appear in our latest, free Best of Cape Town Central City 2014 guide. To fi nd out where to obtain copies or view the guide online visit www.cape-towncid.co.za/our-work/communications/best-of-the-cape-town-central-city-guide. Also visit the “Explore our CBD” option on our website (www.capetowncid.co.za) to fi nd venues by map.
02
5 town December 2013 /January 2014 CityViews 5 around
HEART OF THE HOmEThe Central City offers a remarkable range of homeware in all styles, shapes and colours to pretty up your space.
Chandler House Michael Chandler believes strongly in pieces made with integrity, using materials that are locally sourced and locally made. From auction room fi nds to aprons, ceramics and embroidered scatter cushions, all have been selected with his discerning eye. 53 Church Str, 083 423 2001, www.chandlerhouse.co.za
Field Offi ceThe Field Offi ce is a meeting place, an offi ce-away-from-the-offi ce, a café, and also the showcase of functional design by talented duo Luke Pedersen and James Lennard. Find simple, high quality products ranging from seating and lighting to desks and tables. Enjoy free Wi-Fi and coffee while you browse. 37 Barrack Str, 021 461 4599, www.fi eldoffi ce.co.za
Moroccan Warehouse No need to travel to a faraway souk – you can fi nd everything from leather cushions to stools, bowls, lanterns, tiles and fl oor coverings in this jam-packed shop. Tiny tea glasses in a variety of colours make great gifts. Cnr Commercial and Buitenkant Strs, 021 461 8318
Stable Innovative SA designers, artists and artisans showcase their work in a professional retail environment. Lighting, furniture and accessories from cutting-edge creatives. 65 Loop Str, 021 426 5094, www.stable.org.za
Still Life A decor store that will make any home feel loved and cherished. Cushions, decorative clothing hooks, ceramics and frames are locally made. 229c Long Str, 021 426 0143, stilllife-decorstore.blogspot.com
kIDs’ sTUFFThe festive season is a magical time for little ones. Spoil them with a carefully chosen present.
Merry Pop Ins Pick up big brand children’s clothing, furniture, prams and toys without breaking the bank. Stocks high-end, secondhand but gently worn items. 201 Bree Str, 021 422 4911, www.merrypopins.co.za
Brick Forge One of the biggest Lego shops in SA, this is a one stop shop for best-sellers and new releases, toys and collections. For kids of all ages. Shop 9, Church Street, 021 424 0929, www.brickforge.net
photographers to group exhibitions featuring international artists. 63 Shortmarket Str, 021 422 2762, www.erdmanncontemporary.co.za
Association for the Visual Arts The AVA Gallery, in partnership with Spier, is Cape Town’s oldest non-profi t, members-based, public benefi t organisation and art gallery. It showcases contemporary South African art in all media. 35 Church Str, City Centre, 021 424 7436, www.ava.co.za
The African Portrait The African Portrait was established in 2004, specialising in oils on canvas and mixed media, focusing on portraiture and compositions celebrating Africa in all its diversity and beauty. Cnr Long and Hout Strs, 021 426 1886, www.theafricanportrait.com
The Black Box GalleryA gallery devoted to introducing new artists and interesting ideas, a good place to source fresh talent. 52 Church Str, 021 423 3075, www.blackboxgallery.co.za
Youngblood Arts and Culture DevelopmentA fantastic arts and culture platform for emerging and established artists, performers and creatives. The corporate social investment platform of UAL Shipping, making art a sustainable form of income is the aim of the work done here. 70-72 Bree Str, 021 424 0074, ybafricanculture.com/youngblood
01. Kirsten Goss & Missibaba
02. Sturks Tobacconists
03. Honest Chocolate
04. Merry Pop Ins
05. Field Offi ce (with designers James Lennard & Luke Pedersen l to r)
06. Olive Green Cat
07. Skinny Laminx
08. Prins & Prins
04
06 07
05
OLD AND LOvEDRefl ecting the CBD’s character is the wide range of shops dealing in antiques and the eclectic.
Church Street Antique MarketWander past stalls laden with silverware, ceramics and collectibles at this open-air market. Bargain for that special something
for yourself or a friend’s collection. Church Str, between Burg &Long Strs
Cape Town Coins & CollectiblesThis funky shop specialises in coins and notes, but also buys and sells vintage jewellery, cameras, toys, porcelain and glassware from every era. Find vintage matchboxes from across the globe and Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek coins. 66 Church Str, 021 423 6881, www.coinsbymail.co.za
Long Street Antique ArcadeGet your antiques “hit”, with a myriad of shops to be found in one small arcade. Militaria, clocks, vintage clothing, jewellery… it’s all here. 127 Long Str, 021 423 2504, www.theantiquearcade.co.za
Silvercraft Restoration CentreSilver, copper, brass, cutlery, and candlesticks to buy, or bring your heirlooms to be repaired or replated. 178 Bree Str, 021 423 4463
GALLERIEs GALORE Vibrant spaces show drawings and sculpture, photography, prints and mixed media. See what appeals – a small print in a teeny frame, or a large-scale art installation discovered at a student exhibition.
Edge Glass Gallery Founded by glass artist Nelius Britz, this is the country’s only glass gallery. Tucked away in a tiny lane, it represents local and international artists, while the on-site studio also accepts commissions. Be dazzled and delighted by the swirling colours and organic shapes. 29 Vredenburg Lane, 021 423 3370, www.capeglassstudio.com
Erdmann Contemporary & The Photographer’s Gallery ZAOwner-run gallery, with an established international reputation. From street
08
CityViews December 2013/January 20146 town
For locals, this is the perfect time to switch off and explore the Cape Town Central City, particularly through the end-of-year events that take place.
If you’re a local, be a tourist in your own downtown; and if you’re a visitor to Cape Town, this is the season to experience the unique vibe of Africa’s city of design and inspiration. Here are some of the hottest happenings over the festive season and some of the best ways to see the sights and get around town.
Tickets to RideGetting around the CBD by foot is easy and highly recommended just to take in the ambience, but if you do want to use your wheels, you can park at one of the 36 well-situated public parking facilities in the area (see the map on this page – also in our Best of the Cape Town Central City 2014 guide - vist www.capetowncid.co.za/our-work/communications/best-of-the-cape-town-central-city-guide.)
From here, move around town using the MyCiTi bus service (stops shown here – you can fi nd out how to buy your ticket at www.myciti.org.za) or alternatively hop on and off the open-top double-decker buses of City Sightseeing. The Red City Tour route (see stops on the map or visit www.citysightseeing.co.za) covers parts of the Central City, and together with MyCiTi puts you virtually on the doorstep of all the CBD’s major attractions, such as our numerous museums (once again, see map). A new addition to the Red City Tour is a 30-minute, self-guided Creative Walk from outside the District Six Museum that takes in both this venue as well as the highlights of the area, from the famous Charly’s Bakery to The Book Lounge, Fugard Theatre and Cape Town’s original leather merchants, Woodheads.
TUEsDAY 24 DECEmbERChristmas BandsThis is the day that the city’s traditional and highly popular Christmas bands and choirs will entertain locals and visitors alike throughout the Central City.
mONDAY 1 &sATURDAY 4JANUARYMinstrel Magic Thousands of members of the Malay choirs (Nagkore) will march and perform in the CBD from 00h30 after the ringing in of the New Year. Then there’s just time to catch your breath before the Cape Minstrel Carnival or Kaapse Klopse, the Mother City’s longest-running street party. Minstrel troupes will march through Cape Town, dressed in vibrant costumes, strumming on banjos, blowing on trumpets and performing their signature ghoema music. This popular event, ringing in the New Year for a second time, starts at noon on Saturday 4 January in Darling Street in front of the City Hall.
mONDAY 16 DECEmbERReconciliation Day on the Fan Walk & Grand ParadeThe popular Fan Walk will come alive on Reconciliation Day with festivities to celebrate Cape Town’s history and memory, and begins the 25-day countdown to the continent’s biggest soccer event, the African Nations Championship 2014 (CHAN). There will also be a Voorsmaakie (a preview) on the Grand Parade on the 16th of the upcoming Cape Minstrel Carnival (see 4 January.)
TUEsDAY 31 DECEmbERNew Year’s Eve on Grand Parade rings in WDC2014 As Cape Town offi cially crosses over into its year of be-ing WDC2014, the Grand Parade will be the arena for 3D mapping, video projection, pyrotechnics, laser lighting and live streaming set against a backdrop of the iconic City Hall with Table Mountain in the background. The bash starts at 18h00 and boasts a line-up of South Africa’s top DJs and dance artists — including chart-top-per Toya DeLazy and DJs Ready D and 5fm’s DJ Fresh. For more info visit www.wdccapetown2014.com
THROUGHOUT DEC & JANThe Festive Lights The switching on of the City of Cape Town’s festive lights on 1 December 2013 (the 45th year of this event!) marked the four-week countdown to Cape Town being WDC2014 — World Design Capital 2014. Running down the length of Adderley Street and always a sight to behold, the lights are an annual must-see for locals and visitors alike.
MAP SUPPLIED BY CCID (021 419 1881)
1 Iziko Bertram House Museum 2 Michaelis Gallery 3 Iziko South African Museum 4 Iziko Planetarium 5 Cape Town Holocaust Centre 6 South African Jewish Museum
7 Iziko South African National Gallery
8 District Six Museum 9 Iziko Slave Lodge Museum 10 Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum 11 Iziko Michaelis Collection
12 Iziko Koopmans-De Wet House 13 Gold of Africa Barbier-
Mueller Museum 14 Prestwich Memorial and
Visitors’ Centre 15 Castle of Good Hope
18 bus stops around the City on a circular
route including Table Mountain. Duration: app
2 hours. Start your tour at any of the bus stops
and hop on and off as many times as you like.
CAPE TOWN RED CITY TOUR Every 20 minutes
mUsEUms
M3
M3
N2
N1
THE FRINGE
TABLE MOUNTAIN
NATIONAL PARK
TAMBOERSKLOOF
WOODSTOCK
SEA POINT
HARBOUR
Granger Bay
Table Bay
V&A WATERFRONT
GARDENS
MOUILLE POINT
GREEN POINT
Bantry Bay
Somerset
Queens Beach
Barnham
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Byron
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Upper Albert
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Kenm
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Queen
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Russell
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Nelson
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Caesar
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VICTO
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Melbourne
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LLIH LANGIS
Tafelberg Rd
Firmount
Conifer
Dover
Glengariff
Sea Point
Civic Centre
and Clinic
Glengariff
Kort
Hall
Aurora
London
Marais
Albany
Bellevue
Heathfield
Herbert
Milner
Oliver
Ellis
Milton
The Glen
Worcester
Cassel
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Kings
Queens
Alexand
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Bellw
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Rochester
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Gorleston
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Des H
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Le Croix
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Ratling
De Wet
Ocean View
Marina
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St CharlesMonastery
Chateau
De L’H
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Le Sueur
Norman
Ocean View
St Bartholomew
Arthur’s
Duncan
Barkly
Clifford
HIGH LEVEL
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REGENTVictoria
BEACH RD
Hospital
RuaBartholom
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Fawley
Lymington
Duncan
Castle
Longmarket
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Rothesay
Stephans Way
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Ocean View
Lower Plein
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Granger Bay Blvd
AthleticsTrack
Rugby
Rugby
TennisPrecinct
Health and
FitnessGreen
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Metropolitan
Golf Course
Metropolitan
Golf Course
Fort Wynyard
grebnennoS ztirF
Green Point
Track
Bill Peters Drive
Stanley
Avondale
CricketOval
SIR LOW
RY ROAD
FERRY TO ROBBEN ISLAND
CAPE TOWN
STADIUM
GREEN POINT
URBAN PARKSea Point
Police Station
SEA POINT PAVILION
SEA POINT PROMENADE
Green Point
Lighthouse
Garfield
Roseberry
Chesterfield
Glencoe
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Forest Hilton
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Invermark Cres
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KLOOF
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MAIN
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VICTORIA WHARF
CLOCK TOWER
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BUITENKANT
HELEN SUZMAN BLVD
Blackheath
Bennington
Hilde
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Lodge
Sylvan
Montreal
Clairwood
CT Central
Police Station
Castle of
Good Hope
Upper Canterbury
Civic
Centre
De Waal Park
North Wharf
Square
Church
Square
Pier
Place
Founder’s
Garden
CPUT
Artscape
Theatre
Harrington
Square
Thibault
Square
Company’s
Garden
SIGNAL HILL
Grand Parade
City HallCity Library
Greenmarket
Square
Cape Town
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Station
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Riebeeck Square
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1 Buitengracht Street Parking No 4 2 Riebeeck Square Parking 3 33 on Bree 4 Redefine North Wharf 5 Christiaan Barnard Memorial
Hospital 6 Pepper Club 7 Lower Long Street Parking 8 Edward Nathan Sonnenberg 9 CTICC 10 15 on Orange 11 Mandela Rhodes Place 12 Picbel Parkade 13 Strand Parkade 14 Thibault Square Parking 15 SARS 16 Capetonian Parking 17 Ryk Tulbagh Square 18 Fountains Hotel 19 Golden Acre 20 Grand Central 21 Plein Park 22 Truworths House External Parking 23 Africa Parking 24 No 1 Adderley Street Parking 25 Park-a-lot 26 Dubhe Parking 27 Media 24 28 H. Heitman & Son Parking 2 29 Salazar Car Park 30 Artscape – (From 17:00) 31 56 Barrack Street Parking 32 Harrington Square 33 Protea Parking 34 Libertas Parking 35 I.S.I. Car Park 36 H. Heitman & Son Parking 1
mYCITI bUs sTOPswww.myciti.org.za
TranSpOrT & MuSeuMMap
CAPE TOWN CENTRAL CITY PUbLIC PARkING
around
7 town December 2013 /January 2014 CityViews 7 around town 7 town 7
The Company’s Garden will once again set the scene this festive season for the Cape Town Summer Market, to run from 14 – 30 December 2013*.
Cape Town summer market
What could be more relaxing than doing your festive season
shopping among scampering squirrels, in the shade of old oak trees and with the scent of roses wafting on a cooling breeze? Yes, it is possible to tick off your “to-do” list in a botanical garden in the heart of Cape Town. Of course, you can also eat, party or simply spend some quality time with your favourite people in the fresh air, surrounded by historic ambience.
Now in its second year (and the reincarnation of what was previously the Adderley Street Night Market), the Cape Town Summer Market promises even more choice in vendors, upgraded lighting (courtesy of The Company’s Garden and the City) and accessibility. It will accommo-date about 250 enterprises, with preference given to those selling locally produced goods. Visitors can choose from hand-crafted homeware and stylish clothing and jewellery to tasty food and slow-brewed craft beers.
Try out, for starters, Bar Di Bar — a 1975 VW Kombi modifi ed into a craft beer
and wine bar; HWK Art, with handmade metal art pieces and leather wear; Mercan-tile Arts and Crafts with children’s goods, bags and accessories; and Karoo Worx for sisal vessels, lights and ceramics.
Says event organiser, Toby Chance, managing director of Adele Lucas promotions: “Moving the Adderley Street Night market into The Com-pany’s Garden was quite a challenge. We had to retain the loyal vendor and visitor following of the former mar-ket while attracting a new product profi le which would appeal to a broader audi-ence. Cape Town and the Western Cape are home to many emerging businesses in the creative industries and we have made a special effort to accommodate these and provide these small businesses with a much-needed market outlet.”
Stalls will be up from 14 December until 30 December (excluding Christmas Day and Boxing Day). The market runs from 12h00 until 23h00, with festivities revving up early evening with live music.For enquires email [email protected]
Lekker in LangaBridging town and township, the Cape Town Summer Market now has a twin event: the Langa Quarter Summer Mar-ket, in the city’s oldest township. With over 40 stalls to choose from, this is a chance to scoop up last-minute holiday season gifts from vendors selling top-notch local goods and crafts as well as enjoy live music, yummy local cuisine and much more. Patrons can also sip a brew at the beer garden or soak up the sun while listening to sultry jazz tunes performed by local musos.
Tour guides will be on hand for those who want to explore the area, and art lovers can check out the 10 homes on Rubusana Street, within the Langa Quarter, that have been transformed into galleries.
This market takes place just off the N2 at the old St Louis Primary School (corner of Rubusana Avenue and N’Dabeni Street). It runs from Friday 20 December to Tuesday 24 December. Entrance is free, apart from a tip for the optional local guides.To fi nd out more call 076 530 5065 or visitwww.langaquarter.co.za
“visitors can choose from hand-crafted
homeware and stylish clothing and jewellery to tasty
food and slow-brewed craft beers.”
*Please note the market will be closed on 25 and 26 December.
Check out the four public sculptures, funded by the JK Gross Trust, that offer both stately and humorous backgrounds. The John Skotnes work “Mythological Landscape” was erected in Thibault Square in the early 1990s, followed in 2000 by Brett Murray’s controversial “Africa” (fea-turing Bart Simpson!) on the corner of St George’s Mall and Waterkant Street.
Fritha Langerman and Katherine Bull’s “Come to pass” was unveiled
in 2004 at the intersection of St George’s Mall and Shortmarket Street. Johann van der Schijff’s “Arm Wrestle” is outside the Association of Visual Arts gallery on Church Street.
Some of the latest public art includes a cheerful nautical scene at 99 Harrington Street, by Xanele and Jeremy Puren, while another mural, at 75 Harrington Street by renowned artist Falko, illustrates how a goldfi sh grows only as big as its pond. Smile, snap, and share!
Make it snappyWith a camera on nearly every type of cellphone,
photos are free, evocative reminders of holiday
times… and the Central City offers wonderful
public artworks as colourful backdrops.
L to R: “Mythological Landscape” by John Skotnes; mural by Falko; “Africa” by Brett Murray.
CityViews December 2013/January 2014around8 town
R10 will be deducted from your account. On average R8 will be donated to the NGO depending on your service provider. Vodacom carrier fees waived to a total annual value of R40 000. SMS service fees sponsored by iTouch. Please visit our website for detailed Ts & Cs.
When someone asks you for money, what do you do?Even though your intentions are good, giving handouts actually helps people stay on the street. It’s a vicious cycle.
Rather give responsibly.Donate directly to Cape Town NGO organisations and know your money is making a real difference in the lives of those who need it most. Your donation helps improve Smiley and his friends’ lives and getting them off the streets.
The next time someone asks you for money, rather SMS 38088 and give responsibly.
Give where it makes
A difference
facebook.com/GiveResponsibly#GiveResponsibly
Read more of Smiley’s stories at www.giveresponsibly.co.za
Check your phone for the link &SEE HOW YOU CHANGE
THE STORY
?TO BE CONTINUED ...
TO 38088SMS ‘DIGNITY’TO 38088
www.giveresponsibly.co.zaBY SMSING, YOU HELP
OUR CITY’S NGOs HELP
SMILEY
GiveBASED ON A TRUE STORY
GO BACK TO FRAME AND REPEAT THE CYCLE.
3
2 WEEKS LATER2
Wale ST
I still can't find a job and I have no more money
Please sir?Oh, you
poor guy
3
THE CYCLE BEGINS:PART ONE:
FINALLY, I've arrived
in the city of
opportunity
1
D IGN I TY
THIS IS MYSTORY of
HELP BREAK THE CYCLE?
OR...
HELP BREAK YES?
DO YOU...
KEEP GIVING HANDOUTS?
YES?
65
4
You again?I’m not
hiring you
looking like that!
Summer reads
PROFILE
A few years ago, Andrew broke with tradition, moved out of the rental accom-
modation prescribed by the Bar Council, and together with legal partner Norman Arendse, bought a dodgy two-floor abode down a dingy lane off Long Street and, out of their own pockets, turned both the building and the entire lane around. Today Venken Lane, Andrew’s legal home away from home, is a beautifully cobbled lane lined with huge planters.
It is, in fact, quite Dickensian and makes an apt background for both Andrew the advocate as well as Andrew the author. To date, he has five books under his belt including four novels Inyenzi, (about the Rwandan genocide), and crime novels Coldsleep Lullaby (for which he won the 2006 Sunday Times Fiction Prize), Refuge and Solace. His non-fiction work, Street Blues, reflects on the 14 years he’s spent as a reservist sergeant with the SAPS.
And which of these would he recommend for a holiday read-ing? “Coldsleep Lullaby or Solace. The latter is very much a ‘Cape Town’ story dealing with Cape Town locales and issues.
For his own reading pleasure, he turns to the likes of William Boyd (“His dry take on James Bond in
Solo is brilliant!”) as well as Ian McEwan
Asked whether any of his characters are ever based on ones he sees on the streets of the CBD, Andrew laughs: “All my books are based on local characters! The Russian in Refuge was based on a guy I saw at the gym. I have no idea if he’s Russian or not … .”
With his characters inspired by locals, it’s no surprise that Andrew is enamoured with the CBD: “I love the sense of activity. I love walking along Long Street and being able to choose from 20 different coffee shops or lunch-time venues. I also love not hear-ing English, whether it’s another language coming from a tourist or the immigrants that have made this their home. Long Street really is the heart of the City.”
When asked about the street’s sometimes dubious reputation, Andrew responds: “I’ve been here for 22 years and I’ve seen a huge turnaround, and crime seems to be much ‘softer’ compared to 10 or even 5 years ago. There was a time when there was no ways I could walk along Long Street after dark.”
He’s also a big fan of the MyCiTi service: “It’s impressed the pants off me. It’s clean, efficient, friend-ly and the vibe on board is great. It’s the first time I’ve felt I’m living
in a really cosmopolitan city.”If he could motivate for change
in any way, he says he would like to see the area around the High Court become more of the type of legal precinct found in other cities. “Of course what you really want to avoid is for the CBD to lose the legal fraternity to another area. This is what happened, very sadly, in Johannesburg when everyone moved away from the downtown High Court area and scattered all across Sandton.
“Keerom, on the other hand makes a great vicinity for the legal fraternity – besides the fact that it’s home to the high court, it’s a beautiful street with wonder-ful history, and if it’s promoted properly as a legal precinct it would attract not just advocates but other legal firms, and we’d see a lot more building restoration and renovation – from Queen Victoria, across, Keerom into Long Street and the many side streets. This area could be a real jewel in the crown for the CBD, with cof-fee shops, a free WiFi area, bicycle racks and The Company’s Garden just down the road.”
For more information on Andrew Brown and to put his books on your holiday “read list” visit www.randomstruik.co.za
Welcome to lazy days and the delights of summer page-turners. Here’s our suggestions on where to find good reads and rare literary collectables – for your own bookshelf or as memorable gifts.
CLARKE’S BOOKSHOP Find new, second-hand and out of print books on Southern Africa, including African non-fiction and Southern African art. Also a wide selection of general second-hand books. 99 Long Str, 021 423 5739, [email protected]
SELECT BOOKS For rare and out of print as well as new books, including Africana, Anglo-Boer War, Cape Town and its environs, botany, fauna, furniture, literature, travel, hunting and sport (especially rugby and cricket). 232 Long Str, 021 424 6955, www.selectbooks.co.za
VAN SCHAIK Visit this legendary academic bookstore for specialist subject matter; you won’t be surprised that it won the academic bookseller of the year award for the second consecutive year. 22 Long Str, Cape Town, 021 418 0202, www.vanschaik.com
THE BOOK LOUNGE This independent bookstore (see image above) prides itself on the many interesting book-related events that it hosts. Browse the eclectic selection and enjoy a cup of coffee in the lounge area. Saturday morning is story time for young readers. 71 Roeland Str, 021 462 2425, www.booklounge.co.za
ULRICH NAUMANN DEUTSHE BUCHHAND-LUNG A Cape Town institution since 1966 and a favourite with its large German community, this shop stocks books on Southern Africa as well as the translated works of local authors. 15-19 Burg Str, 021 423 7832, www.naumann.co.za
INSTANT ACCESSTablets and e-book readers make a good read just a click away. Now, free wireless internet access in parts of the CBD makes it even easier to link in. For example, The Company’s Garden has introduced public Wi-Fi hotspots (look out for signage to alert you to the Wi-Fi zone parameters; including the restaurant and the area outside the aviary), and similarly, free Wi-Fi is sponsored by Connected Space in Harrington Street. Like other Wi-Fi zones, users are directed to an URL where they can log in. A support line (072 979 5056) helps anyone struggling to connect. Each user has a 100MB daily cap.
Advocating for a good readAuthor Andrew Brown’s awardwinning books take readers not only across Cape Town but into Africa. However, he’s also an advocate who has had his offices right here in the Central City for 22 years, close to the High Court in Keerom Street. City Views spoke to him about his love for the Central City and what he had on his own holiday reading list.