Graffiti and other forms of “uninvited” art are certainly a divisive subject. Those opposed will say that unsolicited markings on private and public property are illegal acts of vandalism. Those in favour argue that they are forms of artistic expression that can enrich and democratise city spaces.
The latter is certainly the view of the world's most famous anonymous street artist, Banksy, who once said: “Imagine a city ... where every street was awash with a million colours and little phrases. Where standing at a bus stop was never boring. A city that felt like a party where everyone was invited, not just the estate agents and barons of big business. Imagine a city like that and stop leaning against the wall — it's wet.”
That colourful vision is one shared by the International Public Art Festival (Ipaf), the sixth edition of which has just wrapped in Cape Town, adding 10 more works to the 133 murals painted in previous years. Each February since 2017 the festival organisers have invited up to 30 South African and international artists to Cape Town to produce works on the walls and doors of private homes, public spaces, schools, office blocks and factories. The results, they say, are “an epitome of creative expression for all Capetonians and visitors to enjoy”.
While the festival was previously focused on the suburb of Salt River, this year it moved to the CBD, where several South African artists participated along with artists from Belgium, Bali, Israel, Spain, Germany and Mozambique. This year's theme was “Humanity”, which Ipaf says was “chosen to encourage connection and positive debate”.
The theme was interpreted in many ways by the artists, with individual works addressing the importance of listening, of social connection, and of conservation. Another interrogates the role of alcohol in gender-based violence. The largest work, on the corner of Loop and Strand streets, is titled Your Best Shot, and is a multistorey encouragement to people to get vaccinated.
Over the 10 days of the festival in late February, visitors could interact with the artists and watch as the works came to life. Now that the works are complete, guided tours can be booked with Baz Art, which offers tours, both walking and on bicycles, in the CBD as well as walking tours in Salt River for R450 per person.
You can also download an audio tour and map from their website.
Pictured above is one of the new works. By German artist Case Maclaim, it pays homage to the people of the colourful Bo-Kaap area. You'll find it on a particularly well-known street that cuts through the heart of the Bo-Kaap. Starting at the top of Adderley Street, the street is home to several noteworthy buildings, including St Georges Cathedral and the Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum.
HOW TO ENTER
To stand a chance of winning R500, tell us the name of the street on which you will find Case Maclaim's new mural. E-mail your answer to travelquiz@sundaytimes.co.za before noon on Tuesday, April 5.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
- The competition is open to South African residents only.
- Only one entry per person is permissible.
- The same person is not eligible to win in a six-month period.
- The competition closes on April 5 2022 at noon.
- The winner will be chosen via a random draw from all eligible entries received.
- The winner will be notified via email. Their name will be published along with the correct answer in the Travel section of the Sunday Times Lifestyle magazine on April 10 2022.
• Last week’s winner is Anusha Bhagwandin. The correct answer was Mauritius.
