Van Wouw Museum in Hatfield, Pretoria, Gauteng

The Van Wouw Museum in Gauteng of South Africa is situated in the city of Pretoria.

It was the last residence and studio of the Dutch-born Sculptor Anton Van Wouw. After moving to South Africa at the age of 28, it took 10 years before this talented Sculptor received his first commission, which proved to be an important one. Van Wouw was to create a huge statue of Paul Kruger, the President of the South African Republic during the Second Boer War from 1899 to 1902. The statue still stands in Church Square in Pretoria.

The house was designed by Norman Eaton and was completed in 1938 and reflects Van Wouw’s love of nature with its’ beautiful ornamental pool and lush gardens.

The Museum is managed by the University of Pretoria and houses about 64 artworks by Van Wouw, most of which are sculptures. His work is very perceptive of the people of South Africa and it is obvious that he went to great lengths to capture their moods and expressions. The house also has documents, photos and tools relating to the artist’s life.

Things to do and see

• Guided Tours
• The Thinker Sculpture
• The Sleeping African Sculpture
• The laughing Basutu Sculpture
• The Shangaan Sculpture

Admission

No admission fee is charged

Tuesday to Friday: 10h00 to 16h00 (or by appointment)

Closed on weekends and Public Holidays

Climate

Pretoria experiences its rainfall in the summer months, with December and January seeing the highest levels.

Summer months, November to March will have average temperatures of between 14˚C and 28˚C.

Winter months, May to August will have average temperatures of between 3˚C and 21˚C.

Transport

There are Domestic and International flights into Johannesburg’s O R Tambo Airport and Lanseria Airport on a daily basis. Bus services, the Gautrain, taxis and car rental companies are available for easy access around the area.