The Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum

Formerly known as the King George VI Art Gallery, the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum is a popular tourism spot in the Bay and visited by hundreds of enthusiasts yearly.

The Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Museum opened on 22 June 1956 and renamed in December 2002. All the fascinating collections are housed in two buildings framing the entrance to St George’s Park. The collections consist of South African art, British art, international printmaking as well as Oriental art. Yes, over the more than 50 years, this gorgeous museum has evolved  into a effulgence of intrigue and information.

Due to the limited exhibition space, the works are constantly rotated from their Permanent Collection.

The Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum welcomes the opportunity to host cultural, professional and educational functions. Exhibitions of well known and famed South African artists are often hosted here. In addition, many of these exhibitions are attended by the artist him/herself where visitors are welcome to ask questions and learn more of the artists intent and talent. 

Numerous schools attend the gallery yearly where they learn more of South Africa’s most talented people. One will often see students here studying works for projects and examining keenly techniques and use of colour. The museum often hosts art exhibitions where local residents are invited to hand in their best works based on a specific subject matter the museum intends. 

The Art Museum is open 7 days a week, except 1 January, Good Friday, Freedom Day, Workers’ Day, Youth Day & Christmas Day. Free guided tours, lectures and fascinating films are always available for interested enthusiasts. 

For the disabled, there is a parking bay available outside the Arts Hall as well as wheelchair ramps leading to both entrances.  A wheelchair is available on request.

The Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum is ideally situated in the magnificent St. Georges Park in Central. The surrounding tall trees and lush foliage make this art gallery a must to experience. Bustling coffee shops, curio stalls and exciting bowling games are moments away in the area. 

Yet, the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum has so much more to offer viewers than art. This amazing museum opens a world of history and South African splendour and talent. Yes, what better way to explore all this amazing country boasts than to go to its original roots.

Make sure you visit the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum in the Eastern Cape.