Artist Karabo Poppy's Clifton football pitch masterpiece honours SA's football heritage

Renowned South African visual artist, Karabo Poppy recently unveiled her latest masterpiece: a series of captivating murals adorning the surrounds of a five-a-side football pitch overlooking the iconic coastline of Clifton, Cape Town.

In a collaboration with the Spanish football league, La Liga, and video game developers EA Sports, these striking art installations were revealed during the launch event of the FC Futures grassroots development platform.

The event, attended by Poppy herself, alongside MC Chaid Saaiman, La Liga Managing Director for Africa Tresor Penku, and FC Futures Ambassador and former Bafana Bafana defender Nasief Morris, was a celebration of art, football, and community.

Poppy, an award-winning illustrator, graphic designer, and street artist renowned for her work on prominent murals including the Soweto Water Towers, infused her signature style into these murals.

Reflecting South Africa’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant spirit, the designs encapsulate the essence of the nation's football culture, embodying unity and pride.

Poppy explained:

World-renowned South African visual artist, Karabo Poppy, has created murals on one of the biggest canvas’ of her career: the surrounds of a five a side football pitch over-looking the iconic coastline of Clifton, Cape Town. I

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Children from Morris’ N5 Football Academy were treated to an engaging training session, learning invaluable tricks and tips to enhance their skills on the pitch.

Mzansi’s vibrant football culture captured in art by Karabo Poppy on Africa’s only five-a-side football pitch for development platform

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Situated in Clifton, Cape Town, the Fives Futbol pitch is one of four FC Futures pitches launched globally, spanning across Mexico, Spain, and Singapore. This initiative, spearheaded by La Liga and EA Sports, aims to make a lasting impact on grassroots football development worldwide.

Through pitch restoration, equipment donations, coach training, and talent identification programs in collaboration with the SA Football Association, FC Futures seeks to empower young football enthusiasts and foster their growth.

Morris commented:

Penku emphasised the transformative power of football in fostering social cohesion and positive change. 

He said:

The FC Futures' launch in Clifton marks a significant milestone in the intersection of art, sport, and community development, showcasing the profound impact of collaborative initiatives in shaping a brighter future for aspiring footballers worldwide.