Cape Town’s iconic Sea Point Promenade is undergoing a vibrant metamorphosis as local artists collaborate to transform an ordinary ablution building into a captivating open-air art exhibition.
Also read: Art exhibition explores inclusive justice within ocean conservation
While ablution blocks aren’t usually considered canvases, the artists involved recognised a unique opportunity to reimagine the space.
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Although the Sea Point Promenade has always been a centre of artistic expression, this transformation elevates its reputation as a walkable gallery in the heart of the Mother City.
In collaboration with local art agency SJ Artists, property developer Blok aims to revitalise public spaces within Cape Town’s cherished landmarks. This initiative seeks to invest in local art and culture, offering a platform to showcase the city’s creative talents, according to IOL.
Shani Judes, who runs SJ Artists, spearheaded the collaboration, dedicating her agency to supporting and managing mural artists and large-scale art projects.
Shani’s vision intends to enhance public spaces. Experience with projects like the Wavescape Surf & Ocean Festival and Sea Walls South Africa, combined with a passion for ocean conservation-themed public art, made Shani the ideal leader for this initiative.
The debut artist was Mika Revell, known as Little Pink Pills. An Asian-American artist celebrated for her political satire, feminism and historical art references, Mika created the mural ‘Impossible City,’ drawing inspiration from M.C. Escher.
Revell’s mural invites viewers to reconsider their perceptions of urban spaces, encouraging a reexamination of conventional ideas about home and community.
Russell Abrahams, also known as Yay Abe, is the second artist. A Cape Town illustrator famed for his whimsical and transformative artwork, he created the mural ‘Ocean Daze,’ inviting viewers into a vibrant seaside scene with seven playful hidden faces to discover.
Amy-Leigh Braaf, known as @hakopike, explores themes of self-discovery and cultural heritage through art. Influenced by Cape Malay and Indonesian roots, the mural ‘Coastal Lullabies’ serves as a poetic celebration of Cape Town’s marine life and natural beauty.
Artists and developers encourage visitors to explore the promenade’s murals at their own pace, with plaques detailing each artist.
A video of the creative collaboration is available on Blok’s Instagram page.
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Picture: @shanijudes / Instagram