People of Northwards: Portraits and Power

We all know the flamboyant portrait of José Dale Lace that graces the ball room of Northwards. But beyond that lies an extraordinary gallery of portraits, photographs and busts that tell the hidden story of Johannesburg’s mining dynasties, high society and the forces that shaped this dynamic city.

Join Northwards custodian Neil Viljoen and retired Wits academic and heritage researcher Prof Kathy Munro for a special guided tour of Northward’s remarkable collection of portraiture and sculpture.

Hermann Eckstein, Alfred Beit, Lionel Phillips, George and Leopold Albu, Derek Keys, Lord Battersea, Lord Kitchener and Stowe McLean - the list of names and faces associated with the house is both lengthy and legendary.

Each artwork is a window into another world: the rise of mining capital, the formation of the mining houses, and the social and political networks centred on Parktown Ridge. The tour also includes a discussion on the original Herbert Baker plans for Northwards and the architectural vision behind one of Johannesburg’s grandest heritage homes.

Don’t miss this extraordinary journey through the art, personalities, architecture and mining history in Northwards.