Description

🎨 Wits Art Museum – Johannesburg

A Contemporary Gem Celebrating African Art in the Heart of Braamfontein

📍 Location: Corner of Bertha & Jorissen Streets, Braamfontein, Johannesburg

⏱ Duration: 1–2 hours

👤 Ideal For: Art lovers, students, families, creatives, culture enthusiasts

📅 Opening Hours: Wed–Sat: 10am–4pm (Closed Sun–Tues)

🎟️ Entry Fee: Free (donations welcome)

🏛️ Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly with accessible restrooms

🖼️ What to Expect

• Permanent Collection – Featuring rare and iconic works from West, Central, East, and Southern Africa, including items from the early 20th century to modern-day expressions.

• Rotating Exhibitions – Regularly changing showcases of local and international artists, often curated around themes such as identity, gender, history, and activism.

• Student Art & Experimental Projects – A platform for Wits University’s emerging creatives to display thought-provoking and avant-garde pieces.

• Interactive Programmes – Free workshops, guided tours, artist talks, and school visits throughout the year.

🎞️ Highlights

• African Masks & Traditional Artifacts – An outstanding and beautifully preserved collection

• Photography and Multimedia Installations – Exploring modern African life and socio-political themes

• The Glass Façade Building – An architectural landmark blending heritage and contemporary design

• WAM Café – A calm, minimalist space for coffee, light meals, and conversations surrounded by art

• WAM Shop – African-themed gifts, prints, books, and handmade crafts available for purchase

🙌 Why Visit?

• Discover Africa’s artistic richness and diversity in one curated space

• A peaceful, contemplative break from busy Johannesburg streets

• Excellent for students, researchers, and creatives seeking inspiration

• A cultural cornerstone of the Braamfontein regeneration initiative

• Great pairing with Neighbourgoods Market, Constitution Hill, or Origins Centre for a full day of culture

🍴 Nearby Attractions & Eateries

• Neighbourgoods Market – Saturday food & craft market just two blocks away

• Kitchener’s Carvery Bar – Oldest pub in Johannesburg with vintage vibes

• Constitution Hill – A former prison turned museum of human rights, 10 mins away

• Origins Centre at Wits – A museum exploring the anthropological history of Southern Africa

🚗 Getting There

• Centrally located in Braamfontein, Johannesburg’s cultural and student hub

• Easily accessible via Gautrain (Park Station), Rea Vaya buses, and Uber

• Secure paid parking available in the WAM basement garage

✅ What’s Included

• Free entrance to all exhibitions

• Optional guided tours (advance booking recommended for groups)

• Access to the café and WAM Shop

• Event invites and newsletters (sign up during your visit)