Want to know where the locals love to go? In this exclusive series on Time Out Cape Town, ‘Local Intel’ taps into some of the city’s best-connected characters to unearth the corners you simply can’t miss in the Mother City.
Cape Town-based artist Justine Mahoney has spent more than 30 years developing a body of work that delves into the age-old question of humanity, and what it means to exist within a body.
Born in Johannesburg, she completed her National Diploma in Fine Art at the University of Johannesburg in 1991, and has gone on to build a multidisciplinary practice across sculpture and painting. Her work has been shown at Southern Guild, Iziko South African National Gallery and Cavalli Gallery, and internationally at fairs and exhibitions including Design Miami, PAD London and Salon Art + Design in New York.
Mahoney is best known for hybrid figures that combine human, animal and mythic elements, and while her early works drew on visual references ranging from science fiction to classical art, today her art is focused inwards, shifting from images in the outside world to those arising from the psyche. It’s work that is layered and otherworldly, but also increasingly personal, and that same sensibility carries into her favourite corners of Cape Town.
To discover Justine’s latest work, be sure to check out her current exhibition – Pareidolia – which is on at Southern Guild’s Cape Town gallery (Silo District, V&A Waterfront) until 9 April.
MORE LOCALS SHARE THEIR FAVOURITE SPOTS
My favourite Beach in Cape Town; secluded and breathtakingly beautiful. I am a free diver, so this spot is also great as there’s a kelp forest there that’s ready and waiting to be explored. Bonus is that it’s easy to reach, too.
[Love the beach? Here are Time Out's best beaches in Cape Town]
Links Crescent, Simon's Town
Best way to cool off during a heatwave or for a pre-work dip. If you are into the sauna, on a Monday morning and Friday morning/afternoon, Hot Huts mobile sauna is located right outside the entrance to the tidal pool, making for the perfect ocean-sauna hop.
[We agree! It's #1 on our list of the best tidal pools in Cape Town!]
Main Road, Kalk Bay
A kind of secret and otherworldly freedive site. Huge kelp forests to explore between Oudekraal Beach and Barley Beach, near the 12 Apostles Hotel. Extremely invigorating if you love cold water.
Victoria Road, between Camps Bay and Llandudno
By far the very best burgers in Cape Town (FYI: there’s a Tuesday 2-for-1 special). Tommy’s Chop Shop is a legendary bar/hangout for enjoying music, old school movies, axe-throwing and nail banging – it’s a whole vibe.
50 Canterbury Street, District Six
[Here's where else to explore in the East City]
For hands down the very best baked cheesecake in the Mother City (they also make a Belgian chocolate version!). You can also grab a mean cup of coffee and a bagel for lunch before work (their hummus and grilled veg bagel is super good).
44 Harrington Street, District Six
Sitting in the train at Sirocco for dinner on a cosy, winter night is one of my favourite things to do. I especially love ordering their Napoli pizza with fior di latte and fresh basil.
75 Main Road, Kalk Bay
Go early on a Saturday morning to have first pick of the best second-hand/vintage/bric-a-brac finds. Whatever you’re after, from glassware to collectable tins, toys and more, you’re bound to find it here. I’ve been going for 20-plus years and I always come away with something surprising.
Marine Drive, Paarden Eiland
[It also cracks a spot on our pick of the 16 best markets in Cape Town!]
AKJP is a well-curated space with many modalities from local designers. One of my favourites is Onesimo Bam, whose incredible wearable art pieces will stand out in any wardrobe. There’s also a coffee shop inside so you can caffeinate while you shop!
73 Kloof Street, Gardens
Effortlessly cool clothing and design items from mainly local South African designers, alongside a few international brands. I love the energy of this place and even when I don’t buy, it’s excellent for browsing. It’s also a great option for buying small, eclectic gifts.
120 Bree Street
[Hungry? These are the best restaurants on Bree Street!]
A huge range of quality art supplies set in the most tranquil environment. Everything is so well-ordered and easy to find, plus the staff is lovely and always helpful. The Italian Art Shop is my go-to for exquisite, stretched canvas that is made to order.
Ground Floor, Riverside Mall, Rondebosch
Make an appointment with Manuela Gray, the tattoo maestro, for meticulous, expertly crafted and timeless tattoo artistry. Coming up on her heels is Ella Mahoney, Manuela’s apprentice.
71 Harrington Street, District Six
This famous street in Cape Town has a real retro 90s feel and features many thrift stores for the sustainable shopper. A few of my favourites include Nevernew, for unusual pieces; VoomVoom for old-school, vinyl records and vintage threads; and BangBang for the best boots and eccentric style fashion.
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