Karoo creatives

WORDS Claire Jowell PHOTOS Desmond Scholtz

Photographer Jürgen Schadeberg is central to the Karoo Collection at the Watershed Gallery in Prince Albert, alongside a delightful range of decor and furniture.

Prince Albert is a small town at the foot of the breathtaking Swartberg mountain. Age not withstanding, the 250-year-old Great Karoo town is fast becoming a food, wine and culture hot spot as more and more artists, designers and craftsmen decide to settle here. 

In the heart of this “dorpie” is the Watershed Gallery. A cleverly restored Victorian house, it consists of four interlinked showrooms of interior design, art, furniture and fashion. Besides its admirably large collection of retro furniture and the quirky Karoo Collection of home accessories, the Watershed also boasts the only exclusive collection of photos by Jürgen Schadeberg. 

Schadeberg is the Berlin-born photographer who snapped all of those famous Drum magazine covers in the 1950s, as well as almost all of the remaining photographs of Nelson Mandela before he was imprisoned. Framed copies and other memorabilia of the Drum covers are also available for sale at the Watershed. 

The Karoo Collection, which garnishes the interior of the Watershed, is a showcase of new and established local artists and designers from around the area. Funky printed fabrics, cushions, hats, graphic art, posters and beadwork make up this collection, which contrasts bold colours and natural textures and finishes. 

Take a wander through the Watershed next time you’re in the Karoo, or check out their website to order fabulous Jürgen Schadeberg prints.

www.watershedprincealbert.co.za