World Art Day on 15 April is the perfect excuse to slow down and take in the creative energy around you—and in Sandton Central, that energy is everywhere. Beyond the buzz of shopping and business, this is a neighbourhood with a deeply artistic side, filled with galleries, public art installations, live theatre, and design-forward dining spaces that turn everyday moments into aesthetic experiences. Whether you’re an art aficionado, a culture enthusiast, or just someone looking to do something different this April, here’s your guide to exploring the creative corners of Sandton Central.
Theatre, Live Performances, and Cultural Moments
If you’re after a dose of culture that’s live, immersive, and always engaging, start at Sandton’s performing arts venues.
Theatre on the Square is an independent gem located at Nelson Mandela Square that consistently delivers a mix of drama, comedy, music, and contemporary storytelling. The venue may be intimate, but the performances are anything but small. For World Art Day and beyond, keep an eye on their calendar for powerful South African plays, family-friendly productions, and one-night-only music acts that bring the stage to life.
Just a short walk away, Artistry JHB
is redefining what performance spaces can be. This multi-level venue is part rooftop bar, part theatre, part creative playground. One night you might catch a local jazz ensemble, the next, a spoken word showcase or acoustic set under the stars. Artistry blurs the line between performance and atmosphere—and that’s exactly why it’s become a favourite for Joburg’s creative crowd.
Public Art and Outdoor Inspiration
Not all art hangs in a frame. One of the most inspiring things about Sandton Central is the way public art weaves itself into the cityscape. It’s in the sculpture you walk past on your way to work, the installation that stops you mid-stride, the architecture that feels like a statement piece.
At the heart of it all is Nelson Mandela Square, home to the iconic six-metre statue of Madiba himself. It’s more than just a tourist photo-op—it’s a reminder of the country’s complex history and the power of public space to inspire reflection.
Around the precinct, you’ll also find sculptural benches, abstract works, and rotating installations that bring a sense of play and possibility to the streets. The best way to enjoy it? Grab a takeaway coffee and explore on foot—you never know what piece of art you’ll stumble upon next.
Where to Sip, Snack, and Soak in the Aesthetic
Some venues in Sandton don’t just serve great food and drinks—they serve a whole mood. From interiors that could double as gallery spaces to menus that feel like creative expressions in their own right, these spots are perfect for those who appreciate a bit of beauty with their brunch.
Saint Restaurant at The Marc is pure visual drama. Designed by award-winning Tristan du Plessis Studio, it’s all soaring ceilings, bold artwork, and ultra-modern Italian flair. Even the cocktails come with a sense of theatre. Whether you’re there for a power lunch or a late-night negroni, it’s a masterclass in design-meets-dining.
Aurum Restaurant, perched inside The Leonardo, is equally elegant, with gold accents, curated lighting, and a seasonal menu that prioritises presentation as much as flavour. If you’re celebrating World Art Day with someone special, this is where you want to book a table.
For a more laid-back setting that still delivers on the design front, TANG at Nelson Mandela Square offers a Pan-Asian dining experience in a space that feels more like a luxury art gallery than a restaurant. The materials, lighting, and layout are all carefully curated—and the sushi isn’t too bad either.
Galleries and Creative Spaces
You don’t have to head to a traditional white-cube gallery to find incredible art in Sandton Central. Here, creativity shows up in curated corners, luxury towers, and quiet spaces tucked just off the main drag, waiting to surprise and inspire.
The Sanlam Art Lounge on Alice Lane is one of the city’s best-kept secrets. As part of the esteemed Sanlam Art Collection—one of the country’s oldest corporate collections—it showcases works by both established and emerging South African artists. The Lounge offers a quiet, intimate space to connect with significant pieces of local art history, and viewings are available by appointment. If you’re looking to experience a true cultural gem in the heart of Sandton, this is where to start.
Just a stone’s throw away is Artyli Gallery, a dynamic, contemporary space that champions Pan-African artists. The gallery regularly rotates exhibitions that explore everything from identity and urban life to nature and symbolism, making it a must-visit for collectors, curators, and anyone curious about the modern African art scene. It’s approachable, engaging, and always evolving.
And then there’s The Leonardo Art Tour—a standout experience that combines visual storytelling with high-end sophistication. This exclusive guided tour takes you through the tallest building in Africa, showcasing over 150 original artworks integrated into the architecture itself. It’s not just a gallery—it’s an immersive journey through creativity and innovation. The experience ends with a visit to Alto234, the highest bar on the continent, where you can sip Moët & Chandon champagne while taking in panoramic views of Joburg. Art, skyline, and a glass of bubbles—now that’s a cultural outing.
Make a Day of It
There’s something powerful about taking a day to simply explore, observe, and appreciate the world through a creative lens. Whether you’re catching a show, discovering a new artist, sipping wine in a beautifully designed space, or taking in a sculpture you never noticed before, Sandton Central offers a fresh perspective around every corner.
So, this World Art Day, step out of the routine and into a world of creativity. Sandton Central is ready to inspire—all you have to do is look around.
