Cape Town’s CBD has added a touch of creativity to its urban landscape with a bollard art project by the Cape Town Central City Improvement District (CCID).
Also read: Explore Dr Esther Mahlangu’s illustrious art career at Iziko Museum
These once-sturdy structures have transformed into vibrant canvases, showcasing local landmarks like District Six, Table Mountain, and Boulders Beach.
CCID Urban Management collaborated with four artists from HandCantrol 360 Crew to rejuvenate St Georges Mall. The initiative, titled ‘A Fusion of Iconic Cape Town Locations and African Unity Project,’ commenced in January 2024 after bollards were prepped with three-in-one paint for added durability.
The project not only empowers local artists but provides a platform to showcase stories about the Mother City’s rich history, says CCID Urban Management manager Kally Benito.
‘Cape Town has a rich history and culture, as well as iconic landmarks like Table Mountain and the Company’s Garden. Every corner of the city tells a unique story and bollard art is a form of public art that can bring these stories to life, reflecting the culture and soul of the city while promoting African unity through design.
‘Our choice highlights the richness of African heritage, and a celebration of the city’s history and serves as a visual reminder of a collaborative effort that brings communities together.’
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One of the commissioned artists from HandCantrol 360 Crew is graffiti artist Jason Redman, better known as Dfeat Once. The 40-year-old from Woodstock has been doing graffiti since he was 16 years old. These days, his work is inspired by the diversity of people in Cape Town.
‘It is the first time that we are working with poles and on such a small surface that is also round. The process is intricate, and it takes time to get the flow as you have to make sure the drawing makes sense from all sides when people look at it,’ says Redman.
‘We are using mixed media which we know works on these surfaces such as oil-based paint markers. Once the artworks are completed, we will cover the bollards with paint to ensure the work is protected and has a long lifespan.’
The dab hand has completed several artworks in the City, including street art in Lower Long Street and work done for the 2023 Netball World Cup. His equally experienced crew members include internationally acclaimed graffiti artist Maxwell Southgate (also known as Mak1one), who recently revamped the mural on Charly’s Bakery, which he painted 14 years ago.
The CCID’s Urban Management department plans to extend the project to other parts of the mall, as well as other spaces within the CBD.
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Also read:
Explore Dr Esther Mahlangu’s illustrious art career at Iziko Museum
Picture: Supplied
