The third edition of the Harcourts Hilton Art in the Country at Harrington House in Hilton is panning out to be an extraordinary showcase of some of the country’s top artists, said convenor Kathy Jacob.
“We’re looking forward to an exceptional show. The exhibitors are all frantically putting together the finishing touches to their works they plan to exhibit,” Jacob said.
Early indications suggest that last year’s sales figure of R1,25 million and foot traffic of more than 3 000 visitors will be exceeded at next week’s event.
While a host of service providers offering sustenance — including celebrity chef Jackie Cameron — are hoping to cash in, the local economy is also set to benefit from an anticipated influx of visitors.
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Much as the downstream economic impact is difficult to calculate, Jacob said the level of interest bodes well for the tourism and hospitality sectors.
The enquiries keep on pouring in, especially from elsewhere in the country, from people who have heard about the uniqueness of Art in the Country, she said.
The event opens on Thursday, May 23 and runs until Sunday, May 26.
Entry is R30, pensioners R20 and scholars R10.
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With the clock ticking down to 2024 Harcourts Hilton Art in the Country, May 23 to May 26 at Harrington House, artists are frantically completing works in time for the event.
They include a first-time foursome of artists who are nervously anticipating the step up from Kathy’s Art Studio at the Rotunda Farm Stall to the tented splendour of KZN’s premier art exhibition.
The quartet – Marti Simpson, Caroline Richter, Janine van Deventer and Megan Baldrey – are under the tutelage of Art in the Country founder Kathy Jacob, who offers formal group or private art lessons in all mediums, to children and adults, and beginners and experienced artists alike.
Opening hours: 10am to 8pm Thursday to Saturday. 9 am to 4 pm on Sunday. There is ample free parking.
From Ledt: David Wheildon Oosthuizen, Kathy Jacob, and Simon Addy with newbie Art in the Country exhibitors, Janine van Deventer, Caroline Richter, Marti Simpson and Megan Baldrey.
