KNYSNA NEWS - • Originally the Lucy Wiles art gallery, the Leisure Isle Art Gallery holds paintings from local artists. The shop attached has developed into an antiques haven, so vintage hunters will be pleased. Their stocks range from stainless steel tea sets to film cameras and fine crystal. After browsing one can sit at the Leisure Isle Coffee Shop under the shade of the milkwood tree (planted more than 100 years ago) and sip on a cappuccino or have a light meal.
• Photography lovers will be pleased to meet Knysna-born photography fanatic Ian Fleming. The Ian Fleming Gallery is situated on Gray Street in central Knysna and has a fascinating display of old film cameras. The Fleming crew, which includes Ian's son Warren, host photographic township tours and often hold photography exhibitions.
• If the weather is good, why not spend an hour or two at the Knysna African Arts and Crafts outdoor market? Centrally located, it has locally made sculptures, woven baskets, intricate tapestries and leather goods.
• A fun outing can be had, too, at the Knysna Museum and Old Gaol gallery. The building was constructed in 1859 and draws visitors interested in local history. There are often art workshops for children and teens, and a permanent exhibition of local painters and sculptors.
• Finally, a trip to Knysna would be incomplete without a visit to the Knysna Fine Art Gallery in Thesen House. Thesen House is another historical landmark in Knysna that nowadays hosts exhibitions of local artists, often incorporating modern and edgy artwork. If you manage to catch an exhibition on an opening night you will be treated to fine wines and sophisticated conversation. The gallery has reached a milestone as it turned 20 this year, showcasing a variety of art from paintings, sculptures, African artefacts, etchings and ceramics.
• Art CX Gallery is situated at the corner of Rawson and Gray streets. The gallery showcases unique and beautiful paintings by three local artists, Sally Bekker, Ramona Butler and Dave Croad.
• Bryan Keenan, is something of an icon who works from Woodmill Lane. His work often juxtaposes the fun nature of the artist against the pain he feels since his dog's passing. Most of his paintings feature his dog Jock and this is how the artist keeps him alive, through his art. His art and must-have Knysna souvenir postcards are available from Cafe Knysna, adjacent to where the artist paints. Other local artists are also showcased here.
'We bring you the latest Knysna, Garden Route news'
