About Us
Camps Bay Gallery was birthed not from a blueprint, but from the raw experience of rejection. It stands as an answer to the question: what happens when we are told "no"?
A Founder's Vision
“I wanted to create a space that does not have the keys to the gate-keeping, but a space which becomes a door-keeper. A space that does not need permission to exist.”
Founded by Sandiso Mpengesi, the gallery is a direct response to a world of invisible gates. It is a space for dialogues that are not always welcome elsewhere, a testament to the power of creating our own tables rather than waiting for a seat at someone else's.
— Sandiso Mpengesi
A Door-Keeper, Not a Gate-Keeper
Entering the art world can be daunting. We exist to hold the door open, providing a platform for emerging and established artists whose stories demand to be told with true reflection. We are a house-keeper for talent, a sanctuary for creativity.
Anchored in Camps Bay
Our location in Camps Bay is intentional. By placing untold stories in the heart of a prestigious area known for its tourist foot traffic, we deliberately disrupt expectations and close the gap between grassroots artists and global audiences.
Our Values
We invite every person from all corners of the world to have a discussion, an introduction, a body, a conclusion—and to jump over the gates that separate us.
Courage
To exist without permission and champion challenging dialogues.
Inclusion
To be a door-keeper, welcoming artists from all walks of life.
Dialogue
To foster conversations that build bridges and understanding.
Authenticity
To reflect the true, unrepresented stories of artists.