December @ Origins
- Wits University
Enjoy a creative workshop and four impressive temporary exhibitions at the Origins Centre Museum.
Through interactive and multi-media exhibits, you can explore the origins of art and southern Africa’s rich and diverse heritage. Bring the kids too for an immersive museum experience – go on treasure hunt, bring rock engravings to life in augmented reality, and get the chance to touch real archaeological artefacts! View more details.
In addition to the full museum experience, there are currently four impressive temporary exhibitions to enjoy.
Ngezandla Zethu: Stories of African Basketry in Rural KwaZulu
This exhibition brings into focus the often-hidden histories of disability and rehabilitation in rural South Africa through the medium of traditional African basketry. These practices are represented here through a collection of baskets produced in three self-help, income-generating projects in remote areas of Natal, Zululand and Maputaland between 1978 and 1990. On until 15 February 2026
Our Wandering Continents/Nuestros Continentes Errantes by Marcela Cabutti (Argentina)
In this exhibition Marcela Cabutti proposes a reappraisal of what we usually consider motionless, such as continents and tectonic plates, to restore their status as bodies in slow and constant motion, a process that transcends human perception. She draws on research into geological and historical archives, in which maps and rocks serve as coordinates for a narrative about time and territory. On until 14 February 2026
Imagine Visionary Animals by Erla Haraldsdottir (Iceland)
The site-responsive exhibition is informed by the hues of materials composing the physical exhibition space of the new wing, and by underscoring the museum’s core themes – cave paintings and rock engravings. By balancing photorealist and symbolic realism, Icelandic artist, Haraldsdóttir returns to her longstanding investigations into how images can serve as portals – connecting cultural symbols, archetypes, and lived experience across time and place. On until 15 February 2026
Agitation
The conversations in this exhibition include how we might best address water, energy and food insecurity; systematic injustices and the uneven distribution of resources; and impacts of climate change on the availability of and access to sufficient, reliable and safe water, energy and food. The artwork on display – videos, sculptures, photography and drawing - will include contributions from community artists and other artists in Makhanda and Johannesburg. On until 10 January 2026.
Read more about the permanent exhibitions.
Buy local this festive season at the Origins shop
Our shop is proud to supply unique products made by local artists, and an inviting selection of Africana-focused books. The items are inspired by African heritage and art, and the stories and histories that are explored in the museum. We sell a range of stunning and locally made art, jewellery, curios and gifts, and our bookstore stocks an impressive selection of books with a focus on rock art, archaeology, natural sciences, children’s books and Africana. Come during our business hours and browse!
Curious Café at Origins Centre
The restaurant at Origins is open for business Monday to Saturday. Come and experience the beautiful, sunny restaurant, and have coffee or a delicious meal before or after your museum visit. Keep an eye on their social media for specials (Instagram @curiouscafe_).
Museum Hours and Admission
Monday to Friday 09:00-17:00
Saturday and Public holidays 09:00-16:00
Sunday closed
Ticketing
You can book your museum visit via webtickets or at the door.
Adults R90; Pensioners and Wits staff R70; Children and students R45.
Temporary exhibition only R60 general; R30 students and kids.
Parking
We have dedicated parking in front of our building on Wits Campus; call our reception to arrange (011) 717 4700.
Enquiries: school and group bookings - bookings.origins@wits.ac.za; 011 717 4700
Exhibitions and Public Programming - tammy.hodgskiss@wits.ac.za
Follow us on social media
Facebook and X: @originscentre
Instagram originscentre_wits