The Karoo Art Hotel reopened its doors this morning, marking the start to one of the most exciting weekends on the Barrydale calendar.
The Karoo town will over the next few days be abuzz with activities that range from a puppet parade, a rock festival and a very special Art Meander.
No sleepovers…yet
From the outset new owners Rick and Sue Melvill made it clear that they would do everything in their power to ensure that Barrydale gets its hotel back in a better shape than it was before, and to this end they have left no stone unturned.
However, to accomplish this mammoth task realised that they would need more time to complete all renovation work.
A decision was nonetheless made to open certain sections of the hotel to the public while construction work continues.
Therefore, as part of the reopening the bar and reception area, as well as the new library was opened today.
The Karoo Art Hotel also hosts a unique Easel Exhibition as part of this year’s Barrydale Art Meander (BAM).
More than 20 local artists’ work is on display at the exhibition that runs from Thursday until Sunday.
As for the opening evening’s entertainment, local rock band Ozzy and the Saloon Dogs confirmed that they will be performing at the new bar from 9pm tonight – a nice touch to complete Shane Parade that is scheduled to take place at the Magpie Communal Garden From 6pm – 8.30pm.
Rees’ Art pieces to be showcased in Art Hotel Library
In a first for the artist, an exhibition of live jazz portrait photography by Jonathon Rees will light up the hotel library as part of the opening.
Rees will be showcasing a collection of photographs that were shot during live performances from 2018 to 2021, mostly in Johannesburg, which has a rich contemporary jazz scene, with an aspirational diversity among musicians and audience.
“Jazz photography has been an opportunity for me to participate in the art and music I was told I couldn’t do,” Jonathon says.
“I am out night after night, getting in close, yoga breathing, hunting for light, and seeking that elusive moment that captures the emotion of a live performance.”
“It’s been a passion project bringing great joy and I hope that’s what the pictures reflect,”
As for the vibe to expect at the Hotel, general manager Zak Jansen has confirmed that there will be world class coffee, ice cold drinks and the best bar snacks known to man (there will only be a limited menu until construction is completed in March 2022) from 10am onwards.
The News62 editorial team might just set up camp here for the next few days to do some quality control.
