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Riebeek Valley in the Western Cape sees its upmarket art event, Solo Studios, growing the footprint of art tourism for the region.
Klaus Piprek, the originator and organiser of Solo Studios, says that the event – which is in its third year – has introduced art tourism to the Riebeek Valley, and although it is an event that caters for limited numbers, it has brought in approximately R4m (€269 600) to local businesses, residents and participating artists. “It impacts the communities of Riebeek Kasteel, Riebeek West, Hermon and Riebeeks River, who are dependent largely on agriculture and agritourism – wine, olives wheat and fruit farming.”
Piprek explains that the festival is more of an ‘intimate art encounter’, and attracts hundreds of art aficionados “who are provided with a rare opportunity to visit artists in their studios to view and purchase their art straight off the easel. This will be the third year that Solo Studios will take place, following the resounding success of the inaugural event in 2016, and the proceeding – and even more successful – event in 2017”.
The inaugural event brought in 350 weekend visitors, with last year’s instalment attracting 650. Piprek expects tickets to sell fast to the 2018 event, taking place from August 9 to 12. “We estimate revenue in the valley to reach R5m (€337 000) this year, including art sales, the revenue brought in to the local restaurants, wine estates, accommodation, gift shops, grocery stores and more.”
Visitors will also be able to enjoy fringe events such as The Art of Wine and The Solo Sessions – an event where a group of local musicians come together to entertain guests with ad hoc performances and ‘jam sessions’.
“The Riebeek Valley has so much to offer to visitors over the weekend which allows them to experience the excellent local wines, olive products, craft beers, cuisine, freshly roasted coffee, superb hospitality and top-notch entertainment which the Valley has become famous for,” concludes Piprek.
Source: tourismupdate.co.za
