In the short article below, Oscar Norwich, Johannesburg historian and collector, looks at the lives and mansions of a few of the Randlords. These were the men who shaped the history of early Johannesburg following the discovery of the largest goldfield on earth. The piece first appeared in the old Johannesburg Historical Foundation's journal 'Between the Chains'.
ARTICLES
BOOK REVIEWS
‘Geomotional’ is a remarkable and beautifully illustrated exploration of – as the sub-title says – ‘Geometric art, past and present’. The book, which has us journey through images, words, poetry and song, and gives account of a ‘performance-installation’, is compiled by Mary Elizabeth Lange, who is prolific in her writings on Indigenous art and story, and various intersections with heritage.
BLUE PLAQUES
Designed by J.C. Cook and Cowen, the Cinema was built in 1940 and was one of four in the northern suburbs and a very popular venue, particularly the Saturday matinees. It was sold in the 1980s and converted into a cottagey market for the nostalgic. The interior and front façade were renovated, but in keeping with the original theme.