When most people think of Sandton Central, they picture towering skyscrapers, bustling business deals, and top-tier shopping. But this summer, it’s time to step off the beaten path and discover Sandton’s soulful side—a vibrant cultural hub teeming with art, theatre, and creativity. From edgy urban sculptures to thought-provoking stage performances, here’s everything you need to know to soak up the city’s creative energy.
A Breath of Creative Air: Galleries & Open-Air Art
Sandton Central brims with artistic flair, both indoors and out. Start your journey at Nelson Mandela Square, home not only to its iconic statue of Madiba but also to a range of exciting galleries, installations, and restaurants.
Artyli Gallery’s “Urban Echoes” on the Square
Before even setting foot inside a gallery, immerse yourself in Artyli Gallery’s open-air exhibition called “Urban Echoes.” A collaboration between two visionary South African artists—celebrated sculptor Anton Smit and graffiti legend Mars—this installation features eight three-meter-tall heads with a playful nod to Easter Island statues.
- What’s Unique: Each massive head has been transformed with graffiti art, turning them into painted landscapes that evoke the vibrant, gritty energy of Johannesburg’s urban vibe. Walk around each sculpture from different vantage points, and watch how the colour and design shift with every step.
- Where to Find It: On Nelson Mandela Square—look for the towering heads, you can’t miss them!
Insider Tip: Snap your photos in the morning or late afternoon when the sunlight adds an extra glow to these sculpted “canvases.” Then, reward yourself with a chilled drink or a meal at one of the many open-air cafés or restaurants that dot the square.
Must-See this Season: Artyli Gallery’s “Resonance”
Ready to head indoors to beat the summer heat? Make your way to Artyli Gallery for their latest group exhibition, “Resonance,” running through January 2025.
What to Expect:
- A profound exploration of how art fosters connections that transcend boundaries—think moments of reflection, healing, and shared humanity.
- A variety of forms, colours, and narrative styles that remind us of our innate ability to resonate with life and each other.
Participating Artists: Bambo Sibiya, Frans Thoka, Andrew Ntshabele, Fumani Maluleke, Ingrid Uys, Raja Oshi, Andy Carr, Talia Goldsmith, Toni Ann Ballenden, Anton Smit, Robert Wagener, Carey Carter, Patrick Seruwu, plus various prints.
- Location: Artyli Gallery, Nelson Mandela Square Mall, Sandton City
- Contact/Enquiries:
- Email: info@artyli.com
- WhatsApp: +27 78 648 8221
Drop in during a weekday afternoon for a more leisurely viewing experience, or swing by on the weekend if you thrive on a bustling atmosphere.
Theatre on the Square: Where the Magic Happens
Sandton Central’s cultural feast continues at the Theatre on the Square, just steps away from the Square’s restaurants and cafés. This intimate venue offers diverse programming all year, and the summer lineup is especially exciting.
MUSICAL CHAIRS (22 January – 2 February)
Produced by Daphne Kuhn, Aurélie Stratton, and Genesis Shirindza, and directed by Sipho Didiza and Hungani Ndlovu, MUSICAL CHAIRS is a visually arresting show that examines how social media shapes modern life. An eight-member cast merges traditional theatre, physical theatre, and dance to explore power dynamics, trends, and the complexities of love in the digital age.
Crafted by The Locksmiths Collective (Didiza and Shirindza) alongside the HERA duo (Stratton and Megan Carelse), this production flips the childhood game of musical chairs on its head, revealing just how much of our lives revolve around the online world. Expect to leave feeling both entertained and introspective.
Insider Tip: Evening performances often attract a buzzing crowd, so book your tickets early for prime seats—and that energetic, communal vibe.
Piano and Cello Concert
If you’re craving a midday escape, Theatre on the Square hosts a weekly piano-and-cello performance featuring Rexleigh Bunyard (piano) and Francois le Roux (cellist). This ongoing series has delighted audiences for 15 years and remains Gauteng’s only regular daytime concert of its kind.
- When: Fridays at 1pm
- Ticket Price: R100 (R60 for members)
- Box Office: Opens at 12:30 on concert days, with unreserved seating
All ticket revenue directly supports the artists, so why not bring a friend and turn your lunch hour into an inspiring musical interlude?
Make a Day (or Night) of It
Once you’ve had your fill of art and theatre, treat yourself to the full Sandton Central experience. Here are a few ways to round out your cultural day:
- Dine on the Square: With a variety of restaurants and cafés overlooking Nelson Mandela Square, you can sip a cool beverage while watching visitors snap selfies with the iconic Madiba statue—or admire the “Urban Echoes” sculptures.
- Retail Therapy: Because let’s face it, Sandton’s shopping is legendary. Pop into a boutique or two for a quick browse, or go big with some serious mall time.
- Enjoy the City Lights: As evening sets in, the Square takes on a magical glow, perfect for a leisurely post-dinner stroll or pre-show drinks.
Art, Theatre and More
There’s so much more to Sandton Central than meets the eye. Beneath the glossy skyscrapers and luxury malls lies a rich tapestry of art, culture, and community. From the grand-scale “Urban Echoes” sculptures and the thought-provoking “Resonance” exhibition at Artyli Gallery, to imaginative theatre productions and uplifting musical performances, Sandton’s creative pulse is stronger than ever.
So, step outside the usual shops and boardrooms this summer and tap into the area’s artistic heart. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a casual explorer, you’ll find plenty of reasons to linger—and maybe, just maybe, discover a whole new side to Sandton Central.
