Contemporary Culture

Mount Nelson has been setting trends since our doors first opened in 1899. We have been shaped by the shifting cultural tides of Cape Town, and we continue to champion emerging artists and talent who will define the future. Culture lovers from Cape Town and beyond come to the Nellie to soak up the creative spirit, from fashion shows to art exhibitions.

Below are some of our most recent initiatives.

Confections x Collections (CxC) is an annual coming-together of creative expression that shines a spotlight on contemporary African fashion paired with a bespoke afternoon tea menu inspired by their designs. We host intimate fashion shows highlighting local sustainable brands, paying homage to their craft and unique stories.

As part of Belmond and Galleria Continua’s third annual art series ‘MITICO’, acclaimed contemporary artist Daniel Buren enticed visitors to take a moment to contemplate his work – Haltes Colorées – which was displayed at Mount Nelson in 2023.

In 2024, we partnered with the Norval Foundation to host a year-long art and sculpture exhibition entitled ‘Mother City’. Curated by Heinrich Groenewald and Shona van der Merwe of RESERVOIR, the exhibition encompassed a collection of artworks from the Norval Foundation’s Homestead Collection.