Arts, Culture and Heritage
Overview
The Arts, Culture and Heritage (ACH) Directorate is the custodian of Johannesburg’s cultural soul. We are dedicated to ensuring that all communities have access to creative expression while preserving the historical narrative of our city. Our mandate is to foster a thriving creative economy that supports local artists and historians, driving social cohesion through flagship projects and community-based initiatives.
Arts Alive has evolved beyond a single festival to become the official brand of the Directorate. It now serves as the comprehensive umbrella for all our programmatic offerings, industry compliance, and cultural services.
Explore our offerings: Visit the official Arts, Culture & Heritage Website for the latest programs, compliance guidelines, and event schedules.
Arts & Culture
Our Arts & Culture unit manages a diverse array of programmes across the creative sector. We focus on providing platforms for promotion, education, and the celebration of Johannesburg’s local talent
- Our signature annual event blending world-class music with the unique atmosphere of the Johannesburg Zoo takes place in the month of March.
Our projects span the full creative spectrum, including Traditional and Modern Music, Performance Theatre, Fashion, Visual Arts, and Design.
We host regular administration and IT workshops designed to empower creatives with the business tools needed to thrive in the modern economy.
Immovable Heritage
The Immovable Heritage unit serves as the regulatory and developmental custodian of Johannesburg’s built environment, ensuring that the city’s physical history is preserved for future generations.
Registers & Resources
- Joburg Heritage Register: Database of recorded historic sites.
- Joburg Public Art Catalogue : Directory of murals, statues, and street installations.
- Joburg Heritage Blue Plaque Register : Records of buildings honoured with commemorative markers.
Applications & Nominations
- Heritage & Blue Plaques: To nominate a building for a Blue Plaque or inclusion in the Heritage Register, contact Palesa Manyaka at palesamny@joburg.org.za.
- Demolitions: We provide approvals for demolitions for buildings less than 60 years old. Please contact your local building inspector for the specific procedure.
- Naming & Renaming: We oversee the naming of streets and public places. To nominate a street for renaming, contact Dominica Masalesa at DomminicaM@joburg.org.za.
Â
Public Engagement: We host promotional and educational heritage & Public Art tours and activities at various historic sites. Follow our social media for the latest event calendar.
Museums & Galleries
The City manages a premier collection of art and history, offering a deep dive into the evolution of Johannesburg and the broader South African story.
Facility Directory
Community & Status Updates
- Uncle Tom’s Hall (Orlando West): A historic community hub and performance space available for public and corporate hire. For hiring inquiries, contact the facility administrator: Raymond Mabaso at uncletomsw39@gmail.com
- Kliptown Open Air Museum: Located at Walter Sisulu Square; commemorates the 1955 Freedom Charter. Note: The museum exhibition is currently closed to the public.
Â
Education & Promotion: All our facilities host ongoing educational workshops and seasonal promotional projects. Check our social media platforms for the latest schedules and digital exhibitions.
Â
Connect With Us
- Facebook: Arts Alive Joburg
- X (Twitter): @Arts_Alive
- Instagram: @Joburg_artsalive
- Tik Tok: @Joburg_artsalive