By Mimik PR
The Craft + Design Institute (CDI), in partnership with the Castle of Good Hope, will launch a new monthly market on 24 February 2024, featuring a diverse array of Cape Town’s creative talent at one of the country's eminent cultural tourism attractions.
"Kuier@TheCastle" offers a multifaceted experience with various local artisanal products, culinary delights and entertainment designed to cater to all the senses and provide a memorable day out for the whole family. The two institutions envision this becoming the biggest monthly creative event in the central business district.
“We are inviting people to come and experience the magic within the Castle,” says Erica Elk, Group CEO of the Craft + Design Institute. “Come and ‘Kuier’ with us in this magnificent space – one of the oldest in South Africa – to chill, shop, eat, play and explore the fantastic local delights at this extraordinary heritage site we are so lucky to have such easy access to.”
“We chose the name ‘Kuier’ because it is such a colourful local expression that speaks to people coming together to relax together, break bread together, embodying the spirit of communal gathering and shared experiences,” she says.
“This aligns seamlessly with the overarching sentiment of what we want to provide with Kuier@TheCastle – a space and opportunity for diverse people to connect, engage, and celebrate the extraordinary talents of local artisans alongside great music and food.”
“We forget that we are only 18 months or so out of the pandemic and are still rebuilding our lives in physical and shared spaces. Many markets and events closed, and thousands of creative practitioners have had their lives shattered over that devastating period; we need to reconnect and rebuild in purposeful ways; and do it better than before.”
Calvyn Gilfellan, CEO of the Castle, is very excited about the partnership and the launch of the new initiative when we celebrate 30 years of democracy. Says Gilfellan: “Our mission at the Castle is to create an accessible space where all are welcome, can learn and understand our history and heritage, and can participate in building our shared future in the spirit of Ubuntu.”
“The Kuier@TheCastle market with the CDI has the potential to be a beautiful platform to bring Capetonians and tourists from all walks of life together, to relax on the green grass and drink in the most spectacular views of Table Mountain and the City … and spread the love by supporting local creative artisans and performers.”
Here's what locals and tourists alike can look forward to:
A diverse range of products, food and entertainment: The event market will feature a diverse range of products, including jewellery, ceramics, textiles, woodwork, and fine art, accompanied by local performers and a feast of food options. With networks stretching far and wide, the CDI is sourcing new products and vendors to delight visitors.
Historic setting: Set within the Castle of Good Hope, with Table Mountain as the backdrop, Kuier@TheCastle offers a unique and picturesque venue for locals and tourists to explore the Castle’s six museums, historically significant sites, and more on their own or through guided tours.
Live demonstrations: Gain insight into the creative process as artisans conduct live demonstrations and workshops, allowing visitors to explore the skill that goes into crafting unique pieces.
A dynamic array of pop-ups: The event will be a lively space for smaller niche pop-ups to trade monthly, adding to the ethos of inclusivity and a multi-faceted visitor experience.
Community spirit and family: Chill and shade areas set up for Kuier@TheCastle will create inviting spaces for individuals and families to come together in the spirit of "Ubuntu" – fostering a sense of community and connection while supporting local talent and contributing to the growth of the creative economy.
Elk says the new market is an essential new offering as part of the CDI’s mission to help SMMEs and artists grow.
“The Mother City thrives as a dynamic hub for creative practitioners, artisans and designers who infuse their unique talents into the very fabric of the city – it’s what makes Cape Town a major global centre of design and creativity.”
She adds that the East City precinct of the CBD offers visitors an excellent opportunity to explore the oldest parts of the city, which is also a cultural and creative hub.
“The East City part of the CBD has a host of museums such as the District Six Museum and Desmond and Leah Tutu Foundation, galleries, design stores and new cafes and restaurants starting up. A short wander down Buitenkant and Harrington streets allows visitors to explore and discover. The East City is an emerging canvas for artists, designers, and other creatives to showcase their talents and contribute to the city's creative identity.”
Gilfellan adds that the Castle saw a 24% increase in visitor numbers year-on-year. In 2023, 82 889 visitors were recorded, and festivals and events are a significant contributor to this growth in the local tourism economy.
To increase affordability, the Castle offers a significant discount on its entrance fee on each Kuier@TheCastle market day, with adult entry tickets at R30 and children at R15.
Kuier@TheCastle will be open from 9 am – 4 pm on 24 February 2024 and will run on the last Saturday of each month in future. Visitors will have access to safe parking inside the Castle via the Darling Street entrance.
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