Art on the streets of Jo’burg

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Pigeon origami

Some years ago, exploring the Johannesburg inner city was not too popular, largely due to its decaying buildings. However, the current regeneration of the inner city is drawing crowds back to the area.

The city of Johannesburg spends 1% of its budget on public art, and commissions artists to create pieces for this. Some of these are made from wood, metal and recycled items.

I recently had the pleasure of going on a public art tour organised by Past Experiences, a company that arranges walking tours around the Jo'burg inner city, which have gained popularity with both locals and international visitors. Its art tour has been running for about four years, while a graffiti tour started a year ago.

What I loved about it is how the inner city is being transformed by the art pieces, and how life is being brought back to old buildings by the bright graffiti on the walls. It looks amazing!

Visitors will be impressed with the array of art pieces around the city – I know I was.

For more info:

• Email: past.experiences@hotmail.com
• Website: http://pastexperiences.co.za/

Brenda Fassie in Newtown by Angus Taylor. Commissioned by the Sunday Times. Image courtesy Past Experiences

Impala stampede sculpture

Having fun with some of the art by Faith47

Graffiti in Newtown

The pink building near the Market Theatre, which was used as a storage facility for food sold at the market

Graffiti in Newtown

The Heads, as seen in Newtown and surrounding areas

Statue of Walter Albertina and Sisulu

Category: Arts & Entertainment