We live in a city where art lives both at the gallery and on the streets. Phumlani S Langa drafts a list of special mentions to artists spreading their message with the spray can in hand.
This type of art has been very active this year and we couldn’t be happier. Both graffiti and street art play a big role in the rejuvenation of an area – it is the art of the people. Why do you think a precinct such as Maboneng popped off to start with? The art on the walls in part of the East Side is a sight to behold. This then attracts people to tour these zones and now we’re dealing with a fully-fledged inner-city hub of creativity.
We would like to share this award between two deserving entities: the City of Gold urban-art festival and graffiti showcase in Braamfontein and parts of the CBD, as well as The Trinity Sessions, which roped in artists to bring a touch of edgy beauty to the dull and energy-zapping grey wall along the S Bend on Louis Botha Avenue. The mural stands as the largest in the city and has given the area a new lease on life.
Inner city tours are rising and rightfully so. Hair brand Stylin’ Dredz has also placed its weight behind such an initiative with the Stylin’ Creative Conquerors Street Art Tour. It ended on 29 November and hopefully will be back. This weekend also sees the launch of Bomb Jozi 2, the sequel to the controversial film that shines a light on the most unsung branch of hip hop.