Some sunshine from Emotions of the Sun

Temo Mpodi

Cape Town shimmered a little brighter this month as Veuve Clicquot unveiled Emotions of the Sun, a visual and cultural celebration centred on light, memory and place.

Hosted by Nomzamo Mbatha, the launch drew a mix of celebrities, creatives and influencers, creating an atmosphere that felt both intimate and elevated.

Adding depth to the evening were three of the exhibiting photographers, Cristina de Middel, Newsha Tavakolian and South Africa’s own Lindokuhle Sobekwa, who attended as guests of honour.

A homecoming rooted in light

Sobekwa’s return to Cape Town stood out as a defining moment of the evening. His photographic series, Blooming in the Sun, explores landscapes and communities deeply connected to his personal history. Displayed in the city that shaped him, the work carried added meaning.

“Seeing the work here, in the light that raised me, gives it a different weight,” Sobekwa shared during the evening’s conversation, which explored how sunlight shapes emotion, memory and storytelling.

The exhibition officially opened to the public the following day as part of Cape Town’s First Thursdays, welcoming visitors into a sensory experience that blends contemporary photography with the joy and warmth associated with Veuve Clicquot.

Style moments that lit up the room

Beyond the art, the launch also delivered standout fashion moments, with guests embracing golden hues that echoed the exhibition’s theme.

Linda Mtoba

Linda Mtoba commanded attention in a mustard-yellow dress that accentuated her silhouette. She kept the look refined with matching earrings, allowing the colour and cut to speak for themselves.

Amanda du-Pont

Amanda du-Pont opted for a satin dress in a soft banana-gold shade. The look felt effortless and festive, striking a balance between elegance and summer ease, ideal for cocktail evenings.

Jo-Ann Strauss

Former Miss South Africa Jo-Ann Strauss chose a bumble-yellow dress with playful frill detailing. The look was simple, flattering, and warm, demonstrating that bold colour requires little embellishment.

A celebration of warmth and expression

Emotions of the Sun brought together art, fashion and conversation in a way that felt grounded in Cape Town’s light and creative spirit.

From powerful photographic storytelling to radiant style choices, the event offered a reminder of how sunshine, both literal and emotional, shapes culture and connection.