Turbine Art Fair and its charming new home Hyde Park Corner beckon

Hyde Park Corner, P7 events venue, corner of William Nicol Drive and Jan Smuts Avenue, Hyde Park is made for art enthusiasts making it the perfect place for TAF23.

By Edward Tsumele, CITYLIFE/ARTS Editor

Many might be thinking why this shopping Centre instead of the others, and this is a legitimate question to ask by some art fair lovers, as Johannesburg is littered with several shopping centres and malls with the capacity to accommodate thousands of people and therefore suitable to host an art fair.

The answer is however simple: a boutique mall, Hyde Park Corner is centrally located, accessible from all directions, and that is obvious. But there is another compelling reason why Turbine Art Fair has probably chosen this part of Johannesburg as its home, 10 years after the fair was founded by Glynis Hyslop of the Forum Company, and after being hosted by three venues within the past 10 years –Turbine Hall in Newtown, its founding home, Illovo and The Oxford Parks.  

With the venue being a rooftop, P7, there is always something charming about events taking place on a rooftop. I had a glimpse of how the feeling would be on the art fair days, July 27-30, recently when I was part of the media that were invited to view the venue. I marvelled at the view of northern Johannesburg from the vantage of P7, as I could see through the windows almost half of Johannesburg North, as far as Fourways. I was not the only one who was touched by the sprawling view believe you me.

Hyde Park Corner also has a long history and association with art in its history, dating back to 1969 when it opened its doors to tenants, and today its boasts of top notch tenants, a good number of them trading in art related products and services.

Hyde Park Corner is the epitome of fifty-something and fabulous.

Since 1969, when it opened as the first fully enclosed, decentralized shopping centre in South Africa, this benchmark of South African retail has remained current, relevant, and diverse. Constant re-invention through a series of considered updates both in terms of tenant offering and aesthetics, has been key in consistently offering their customers the benchmark which is synonymous with the Hyde Park Corner retail experience.

“Our mall’s trademark offering for discerning shoppers combines a choice of innovative brands intermingled with convenience and a refreshingly authentic flair. Hyde Park Corner’s light and spacious centre, in a prime Johannesburg location, is home to hundreds of international brands within 109 iconic bespoke retail stores; and because shopping and dining are synonymous with a satisfying shopping experience, six alluring restaurants cater to a diverse range of tastes and occasions, from fine dining to meze on the move.

Hyde Park Corner is the place where creativity and comfort magically connect… a place where shopping for art, antiques, superb fashion, unique homewares, or quirky craftsmanship, is a reality. The Cortina Fashion Court bears testimony to our flair for securing a distinguished blend of international iconic fashion brands and blending them perfectly with the very best in Proudly South African brands. The centre also provides a wide range of medical, dental and health professionals, high-tech banks, cinemas and other services – our offering follows a holistic approach to shopping.

Whether you are popping in on the way home from work for a quick bite or making a day of it with friends, the centre’s timeless elegance remains a huge draw card for local and international visitors,” says its management in a statement ahead of the show’s opening next week, July 27, 2023.

About TAF 2023

TAF has become the epicentre of emerging art in South Africa bringing together galleries, artists, and curators from around the country to present and sell contemporary art.

For over 50 years, Hyde Park Corner has been a steadfast supporter of the arts, making it the perfect venue for TAF23 which now celebrate 11 years of being the epicentre of emerging art in South Africa. Immerse yourself in the transformative power of art as TAF23 presents extraordinary exhibitions, thought-provoking talks, and captivating installations. Witness the journey of emerging artists and experience the growth of their careers first hand.

This year, TAF has collaborated with renowned creatives including Tiaan Nagel, Tonic Design, and garden designer Patrick Watson, who will bring an iconic urban green space to Hyde Park Corner.

“Explore the vibrant projects at TAF23, including TAF Unearthed, Off The Grid, On The Grid, TAF Talent, JAG, TAF Capsule featuring Usha Seejarim, and more. Engage with visionaries in art, sustainability, design, and fashion at TAF Talks, and discover the fusion of art and fashion with brands like Tshepo Jeans and artist Alka Dass.

Take home a piece of contemporary South African design from the curated gift shop and bookstore, and indulge in the Steenberg Garden and the Don Julio X The Forum eatery and bar for a truly immersive experience.

TAF welcomes everyone, including children, with a unique arts program designed to ignite their creativity. And don’t miss the VIP Preview evening, where you’ll be the first to witness the magic of TAF23.

Join us at Hyde Park Corner, where art comes alive. Book your tickets now and be part of this unforgettable art journey.”

VENUE: P7 events venue, Hyde Park Corner, corner of William Nicol Drive and Jan Smuts Avenue, Hyde Park

DATES: Thursday, 27 – Sunday, 30 July 2023

Fair Hours:

Thursday Opening Night: 6pm – 9pm (Tickets must be pre-booked/not available at the door)

Friday: 10am – 9pm

Saturday: 10am – 9pm

Sunday: 10am – 5pm

 TICKETS: For more info and to book tickets:  https://turbineartfair.co.za/visitor-info/