The Story of Artvark Gallery began in 1991, in Johannesburg South Africa.
The core idea upon which the company was founded, was the handmade cutlery range initiated by Theresa Jo-an artist with a Fine Arts degree, majoring in jewellery at the University of Stellenbosch, and CP Wessels, a designer, previously a filmmaker and briefly, a student of architecture at the University of Natal.
The relocation to Kalk Bay took place in 1998, where Artvark Gallery and a manufacturing studio in Retreat for Artvark’s steel range were established.
Artvark Gallery is classic, contemporary, and strongly eclectic, with an affinity for folk art, while specializing in paintings, drawings, prints, ceramics, textiles, jewellery, and craft, as well as it's unique custom made steelworks. Having been in operation for over 23 years, Artvark has been a long-time favourite of Cape Town's art lovers and tourists visiting Kalk Bay.
For more than 20 years, the Artvark Gallery has been contributing towards the development, investment, and management of creative and artistic resources for the benefit of the whole community and its visitors. The uniqueness of the gallery, which is undoubtedly one of it's most distinctive features, offers visitors a unique and uplifting experience.
The works showcased in the gallery are a representation of the art and culture of a diversified South Africa, promoting classic and contemporary Southern African art. Artvark advocates for, and provides a visual literacy that is discoverable to each individual, allowing for the exploration of various artistic themes and mediums, regardless of one's background. Artvark caters to the tastes of a variety of clientele. Artvark's steelwork sculptures are unique in concept and design.
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Artvark pieces are part of the following public and private collections;
Artvark cutlery:
MoMA (Museum of Modern Art)
Donna Karan
Oppenheimers
Paloma Picasso
Mark Spencer
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Artvark steelworks:
Sir Richard Branson (private home)
Knightsbridge in Century City, Cape Town, South Africa – sculpture garden and gym
Green Point Track A - 10 public sculptures, Cape Town, South Africa
Hotel Verde in Airport Industria, Cape Town, South Africa
Villiera Wines - tasting room, Stellenbosch, South Africa
