The inaugural Open Studios Fish Hoek and Clovelly (OSFHC) launched on October 3, showcasing the artwork of 19 local artists across 15 studios in the South African coastal communities of Fish Hoek and Clovelly over the weekend. A large-scale art installation was placed in the front windows of the 97-year-old family-run department store AP Jones to promote the event. Participating artists include Susan Didcott, Marlise Keith, Sue Kaplan, Yda Walt, Mandy Johnston, and organizer Lauren Shantall, with works ranging from sculpture and paint pieces to textile art and live material burns.
This event matters because it brings a new cultural initiative to Fish Hoek and Clovelly, areas that have historically lacked such open studio events compared to neighboring communities like Kommetjie and Noordhoek. By fostering in-person community engagement and local art appreciation, the OSFHC addresses the erosion of community ties in the digital age, as emphasized by artist Mandy Johnston. It also highlights the role of local businesses like AP Jones in supporting grassroots art initiatives, strengthening the regional art ecosystem.