Future of the Irma Stern Museum: UCT and Trust's new direction
After more than half a century of partnership, the University of Cape Town (UCT) and the Irma Stern Trust closed the doors of the Irma Stern Museum last month.
The museum, housed at The Firs in Rosebank, was established in 1969 through a Memorandum of Agreement between UCT and the Irma Stern Trust (now administered by Nedgroup Trust).
The property belongs to UCT, while the artworks and collection remain under the ownership of the Trust.
In a statement following a Council meeting held on October 18, 2025, UCT described the closure as “a sad moment” for the university community.
“Both parties expressed the desire to terminate their relationship in relation to the museum for operational reasons,” the Council said. “The Trust is seeking an alternative, larger venue to host the museum and the collection.”
UCT confirmed that the draft cancellation agreement and the sale of the property had been approved “with much sadness and regret”.
The university also acknowledged that the Irma Stern Museum “is very much part of the DNA of UCT” and will “forever be associated with the university”.
The Trust’s commitment to preserving Stern’s legacy
In a detailed statement, the Irma Stern Trust reaffirmed its dedication to protecting and advancing the legacy of Irma Stern, one of South Africa’s most celebrated artists.
The Trust thanked UCT for its 56-year partnership, noting that the collection has always remained the exclusive property of the Trustees, while UCT was responsible for its physical care and safety.
With the termination of the agreement, the Trust will reacquire The Firs from UCT under the terms of the original 1969 contract.
The building, which no longer meets museum-grade standards, will undergo refurbishment beginning in early 2026, following an architectural assessment conducted in 2023.
The assessment found that the structure posed risks to the integrity of Stern’s artworks.
To protect the collection, the most vulnerable pieces will be temporarily relocated to a custom-built conservation and restoration facility.
While this facility will not be open to the public, it will remain accessible to academics and researchers to ensure that Stern’s work continues to inspire future generations.
The Trust also clarified that proceeds from a 2022 Strauss & Co auction have been reinvested into operational costs, including insurance, maintenance, and future strategic projects.
Public consultation and future plans
The Irma Stern Trust announced that it will hold a public consultation on November 13, 2025 at 3pm at the Clocktower building, V&A Waterfront.
The session will engage key stakeholders in finalising refurbishment plans and exploring ways to expand public access to Stern’s art.
The Trust also revealed that a revitalised strategy to preserve and promote Irma Stern’s legacy is being developed, with new initiatives expected to launch in 2026 and 2027.
“We are deeply committed to preserving and enhancing Irma Stern’s legacy,” the Trustees said.
“The Firs will remain an integral part of her story, and we are excited to reimagine how her work can continue to connect with audiences locally and globally.”
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