The Irma Stern Museum closure in Cape Town has triggered continued public concern about transparency, governance, and future planning. The museum shut shortly after a joint announcement by the University of Cape Town and the Irma Stern Trust, ending a long-standing management arrangement.

The museum operated from The Firs, the former home and studio of South African artist Irma Stern (1894–1966). It opened to visitors in 1971 and displayed Stern’s artworks, personal items, and collected objects. Several rooms remained unchanged, including her studio.

Museum Background and Management

For more than five decades, the University of Cape Town (UCT) managed the museum on behalf of the Irma Stern Trust, which owns the collection. During this period, the museum became a recognised cultural site and attracted visitors from South Africa and abroad.

In October, UCT and the trust released a joint statement confirming the end of their 56-year partnership. The statement described the move as part of a renewal process. It confirmed plans to relocate the museum’s collection and repurpose The Firs.

The museum closed the day after the announcement. The short notice raised concerns among heritage researchers and members of the public.

Reaction to the Closure

Heritage researcher Phillippa Duncan said the decision left many people angry and suspicious. She cited limited advance notice and a lack of detailed explanation. She also pointed to uncertainty around staff departures and future access to the collection.

UCT described the closure as an operational decision. A university spokesperson said the institution would share updates when available. The spokesperson did not provide further detail at the time.

Frank Kilbourn, chairman of South African auction house Strauss & Co, said the announcement shocked many people. He noted that the museum held strong cultural value for Cape Town and the wider art community.

Funding, Storage, and Future Direction

In 2022, Strauss & Co organised a sale that raised about 22 million rand, close to $1.3 million, to support the museum’s preservation. The Irma Stern Trust later confirmed that it invested these funds for future management and upkeep of The Firs.

The trust now operates under Nedgroup Private Wealth. It confirmed that the collection is moving to a storage facility at the Nedbank Clocktower Building in Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront. The trust said the relocation process remains ongoing and may take several months to complete.

Public criticism followed the closure, including a petition calling for accountability and transparency. In response, the trust held a public consultation in November. It said it planned to announce an advisory board and a management committee before the end of 2025. At the time of reporting, no announcements had appeared.

The trust also stated that the Irma Stern Collection and The Firs will continue in a “rejuvenated guise.” It said new exhibition and branding partnerships are planned. It has not shared timelines or further details.

Kilbourn urged broader engagement with art professionals and stakeholders. He said open discussion could help address challenges while protecting Stern’s artistic legacy.