Oaklands Artist in Residence (OaklandsAiR)
Mountain Artist Residency Near Cape Town in UNESCO World Heritage Setting
Overview
Discover a transformative creative retreat at Oaklands Artist in Residence (OaklandsAiR), an artist-run residency program nestled in the mountains just 90 kilometers from Cape Town, South Africa. This self-directed residency offers artists, writers, researchers, and landscape architects an immersive working environment within the pristine Limietberg World Heritage Site, surrounded by the extraordinary biodiversity of the Cape Floral Kingdom.
Location & Environment
Set on a working farm at the edge of one of South Africa’s most significant conservation areas, Oaklands provides residents with direct access to unique mountain ecosystems, indigenous fynbos vegetation, and scenic hiking trails. This nature-immersive artist residency combines rural tranquility with proximity to Wellington’s creative community and Cape Town’s vibrant arts scene, offering the perfect balance of isolation and cultural connection.
Residency Focus & Disciplines
OaklandsAiR welcomes multidisciplinary artists working across:
- Fine arts (painting, drawing, sculpture, photography)
- Installation and site-specific art
- Landscape architecture and environmental design
- Creative writing and literary projects
- Research-based practices across all fields
- Performance and multimedia work
The program particularly encourages experimental and nature-based practices, with abundant opportunities for artists exploring natural materials, land art, and ecological themes.
Facilities & Resources
Studio Spaces: Work in converted foaling barn studios offering flexible configurations for various artistic practices, from traditional painting and sculpture to writing and research setups.
Natural Materials: Access wild clay deposits, materials for natural dyeing processes, and resources for earth-based experimental techniques.
Installation Opportunities: Ample outdoor space for landscape installations and the possibility to construct traditional kilns on the property.
Accommodation: Self-catering cottages provide comfortable living quarters with kitchen facilities, allowing residents independence in their daily routines.
Creative Network: Connect with Wellington’s artistic community through arranged access to ceramic kilns, lithographic presses, and screen printing facilities (transportation coordinated by residency staff).
Program Activities & Benefits
While this self-directed residency allows artists complete autonomy over their practice, OaklandsAiR organizes enriching activities including:
- Gallery excursions to Cape Town and the Winelands
- Outdoor exploration sessions in the surrounding mountains
- Collaborative dinner at Vygie farm-to-table restaurant (10-person gathering included)
- Open studio finale showcasing resident work to the public
- Opportunities to propose site-specific projects, talks, and workshops
Duration & Seasons
Choose flexible residency lengths from 3 weeks to 3 months, with seasonal programming:
- Spring: September through November
- Summer: December through February
- Autumn: March through May
Each season offers distinct experiences of the Cape Floral Kingdom’s remarkable biodiversity.
Investment & Application
Weekly Rate: €300 – €360 per week (approximately $325-$390 USD)
Application Process: Rolling admissions with no deadlines – apply year-round based on your preferred dates and availability.
Family-Friendly: Partners, children, and families welcome by arrangement.
Why Choose Oaklands Artist in Residence?
This affordable South Africa artist residency provides exceptional value for creative professionals seeking:
- Uninterrupted time in a World Heritage mountain setting
- Access to unique natural materials and landscapes
- Professional development through networking and exhibition opportunities
- Sustainable, farm-based living in harmony with nature
- Proximity to Cape Town’s international arts community
- Self-directed flexibility combined with curated experiences
Ready to apply? Visit the official Oaklands Artist in Residence website to begin your application and explore this remarkable creative sanctuary in the heart of South Africa’s Cape region.