One of KZN’s biggest art weekends is returning to the Midlands

Hilton in the KZN Midlands is once again setting the scene for some of the region’s best artists to display their work. Art lovers, collectors, curious browsers, and anyone looking for a scenic winter’s day out in the KZN Midlands should diarise Art in the Country from 28 to 31 May at Harrington House. 

Now in its 5th year, this much-loved event has grown into one of KwaZulu-Natal’s premier selling art exhibitions, with last year’s edition generating an impressive R2.5 million in art sales. This year’s showcase promises more than 1 000 artworks by 69 artists from across South Africa, all displayed under the iconic giant marquee surrounded by the rolling green beauty of the KZN Midlands.

What’s on the programme?

Whether you’re a serious collector or just someone who enjoys wandering through beautiful spaces with a coffee in hand, Art in the Country delivers a little bit of everything. New emerging talent will get to showcase alongside some of the country’s top-selling artists. Visitors can expect:  

• Paintings
• Sculpture
• Figurative works
• Contemporary pieces
• Mixed media

Returning favourites include Simon Addy, Grace Kotze, Judy Wentzel and Allen Kupeta, while 15 new artists join the exhibition this year, among them Jane Wolff, Ashley Munsamy, Alex Webster and Limpopo artist Jan Henning.

One artist to watch is 20-year-old Luc Schravesande, a figurative oil painter from Dargle who attended Rugby School and the University of the Arts in London. His oil paintings draw inspiration from 19th-century masters and explore themes of solitude, dignity, and tenderness.

Convenor Kathy Jacob says this year’s event has the most diverse representation yet: “Our local exhibitors complement artists from across the country, some of whom have been with us since the very first exhibition in 2022.”

Underpinned by headline sponsor KZN SPAR, the event’s growth trajectory and investment in art have received a welcome boost from sponsors Brokoop Insurance Brokers and Harcourts Hilton, and support from The Witness. 

To maintain Art in the Country’s credentials, Jacob looks to other sponsors to ensure a top-class exhibition. 

“The support of Quarry Superspar and Tops, Nedbank, as well as Harrington House and Jackie Cameron School of Food and Wine is absolutely critical,” she said, also acknowledging Mngeni Municipality for support of the arts community in the KZN Midlands.

It’s not just about the art

Live Music

Part of what makes Art in the Country so enjoyable is the atmosphere. Visitors will be welcomed by live performances from the Hilton College marimba band, Cowan House percussion groups, and Maritzburg College’s acclaimed jazz ensemble. Local musicians will perform throughout the four-day event, giving the exhibition an easy-going festival feel.

Great Food

There’s also impressive food! The hugely popular Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine returns with its signature bistro-style menu, while a full bar service will keep visitors refreshed between gallery strolls. This year will also see the return of the ever-popular pancake and samoosa stall run by Vashni.

Big Heart

This year’s event supports The Mindful Art Society, a non-profit organisation using creativity for community upliftment and social change. Visitors can donate R20 on top of their entry fee to support the organisation and stand a chance to win an original painting by renowned artist Marion Lowe.

Getaway for Grabs 

There’s also a R16 000 luxury Midlands getaway to be won, sponsored by Brokoop Insurance Brokers. In one of the more tempting additions this year, anyone purchasing artwork at the exhibition automatically goes into a lucky draw to win a luxury weekend getaway for eight people at Safire Lodge in the Dargle Valley.

Not bad for a day spent buying art.

What you need to know 

• Event: Art in the Country 2026
• Venue: Harrington House
• Dates: 28 to 31 May 2026
• Opening Hours: Thursday to Saturday: 9am to 8pm | Sunday: 9am to 4pm
• Entry Costs: Adults: R30 | Pensioners: R20 | Scholars: R10
• Parking: Free and secure parking is available on the Harrington House fields.
• Information: Follow Art in the Country on Instagram for updates and previews of this year’s artists.

If you’re looking for the perfect excuse for a KZN Midlands escape this winter, head to Art in the Country!

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