Ken Forrester Vineyards, renowned for its iconic FMC Chenin Blanc, launched a groundbreaking sculpture garden nestled within the historic FMC Vineyard last Wednesday (5 November).
The location is a legendary site planted in 1974 and celebrated worldwide for producing one of South Africa’s most acclaimed wines.
This innovative public space transforms the vineyard into an immersive-art destination, where guests can wander among ancient bush vines, each a living masterpiece of viticultural artistry, alongside striking contemporary sculptures curated by acclaimed artist and gallerist Janko de Beer of FOMO Fine Art Gallery in Pringle Bay.
Accessible via a majestic new gateway from the estate’s tasting lounge, the garden invites wine enthusiasts, art lovers and nature seekers alike to experience a harmonious blend of heritage and creativity.
“The FMC Vineyard isn’t just soil and vines; it’s a canvas of time, resilience and flavour,” said Ken Forrester, visionary winemaker and guardian of Ken Forrester Vineyards.
“By collaborating with Janko and a constellation of talented artists, we’re inviting the public to walk this sacred ground, a registered heritage site, where the gnarled elegance of 50-year-old chenin blanc vines dialogues with bold, modern sculptures. It’s a celebration of Stellenbosch’s soul; earthy, enduring and endlessly inspiring.”
Curated by De Beer, a sculptor known for his evocative, nature-infused works, the collection features contributions from multiple leading contemporary artists. Sculptures will be thoughtfully integrated among the vineyard rows, creating vignettes that echo the vines’ organic forms while exploring themes of growth, legacy and renewal.
De Beer’s curation draws from his expertise in bridging art and environment as seen in his own installations like the recently celebrated Totem of Euphoria.
“This isn’t just an exhibition, it’s a living gallery where the vineyard breathes alongside the art,” he remarked.
“The old bush vines are sculptures in their own right – twisted, textured, timeless. Our pieces amplify that poetry, turning every stroll into a multisensory journey.”
Open to the public free of charge from dawn to dusk, the garden complements the estate’s tasting experiences, offering guided art-and-vine walks, seasonal pop-up events and photography opportunities.
It underscores the farm’s commitment to sustainable tourism and cultural enrichment.
For more information or to plan a visit to the garden, send an email to tastingroom@kenforresterwines.com or visit the website: www.kenforresterwines.com.
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