Hester Rupert Art Museum in Graaff-Reinet, Oos-Kaap

The Hester Rupert Art Museum is situated in the town of Graaf-Reinet in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.

The Museum is housed in the fifth oldest church building in South Africa. It was built in 1821 and consecrated as a Dutch Reformed Mission Church in the same year. It was built on the traditional cruciform plan and is one the last three remaining such buildings.

The building was saved from demolition in 1965 and acquired by the Rembrandt Group. The Companies Chairman, Dr. Anton Rupert undertook to have the building restored and converted into an Art Museum on condition that a sufficient number of South African artists donate an example of their best work. This appeal was made in personal letters and on the 26^th July 1966, the Museum was opened by the then State President, Mr. C.R. Swart with a total number of 90 paintings and sculptures donated by 83 artists. The Museum was named Hester Rupert in honour of Dr. Rupert’s late mother. In 1968 the Museum was declared a National Monument.

To date the Museum collection comprises 126 works by 106 artists, a small and focused collection which remains highly significant. Most of the collection is still devoted to works produced by artists working in the 1960's who responded to the personal requests to save the building for prosperity.

Things to do and see

• Painting of Hester Rupert
• Sculptures
• Paintings by Maud Sumner
• Works from Irma Stern & Maggie Laubser
• Works from GregoireBoonzaier

Admission

A nominal admission fee is charged. Please contact the Museum directly to confirm pricing.

Monday to Friday, 09h00 - 12h30 and 14h00 – 17h00

Weekends & Public Holidays, 09h00 - 12h00

Closed on Christmas Day and Good Friday

Climate

Rainfall occurs mainly in the autumn months, with March seeing the highest levels. Winter nights can drop below freezing.

Summer months, November to March will have average temperatures of between 11˚C and 30˚C.

Winter months, May to August will have average temperatures of between 2˚C and 16˚C.

Transport

There are flights into Port Elizabeth International Airport, from all major cities in South Africa, on a daily basis. Car hire facilities are available and the airport is approximately 264 km from Graaf-Reinet.