Art wall at Sammy Marks library

An opportunity for all art lovers was recently held through an art installation for the public.

It took place at the American Corner in Es’kia Mphahlele community library at Sammy Marks Square from 12 to 27 May.

This art installation was about involving the community and giving them a chance to learn more about art. Anyone who visited the library was welcome to add their paintings to the wall.

“The key idea of this project was to find ways to sustain artists and their craft,” said Reuben Matlala, the project manager at American Corner.

Matlala pointed out that the American Corner had mainly focused on science and business training. They had never accommodated visual artists before until now.

The paintings were inspired by a poem called “A Celebration”, which was written by two young poets, Noxolo Desire and Fadzai Nova.

This poem represented the theme of the exhibition – Democratisation of the Arts. “We are very honoured. Seeing the wall come to life and how people interpret the poem in different ways is a beautiful thing,” said Nova.

Anyone visiting the library was welcome to paint what they like with the help of the eight qualified art facilitators. They draw your idea on the wall for you and then you simply paint it however you like.

“The project is a great opportunity not only for us as artists but for the communities as well. It’s a great way to bring people together,” said one of the art facilitators, Thulani Prince Mlangeni.

A young student visiting the library, Thabang Tshehla, said his experience was great and the facilitator helped bring his idea to life.

The US embassy funded the whole project. They also provided all the art and drawing tools including extra masks and sanitiser to uphold the coronavirus restrictions. You just had to come with an idea and have fun.

This two-week-long project was a first of its kind at the library.

The American Corner and City of Tshwane hoped to continue making a difference in the lives of community members. Once the wall is complete, it will be left there for all to see. Visit the American Corner Facebook page for more details and future events.

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