Joburg- Inspired by 2010

When Johannesburg found out it had been commissioned to host the 2010 Soccer World Cup, it began to get more inspired. A creative current channelled the efforts along their way, as the city decided to beautify itself for this world class event. Artistic licence reigns free, still, as positive changes occur rapidly and continuously upon this canvas that is begging for a chance to shine.
The Coca Cola Park Stadium and the area around it, has seen vast improvements upon its face in the recent days. The focus upon public art in and around the space is a welcome advancement. The inner city has transformed into something of an artist's studio.
No longer are graffiti'd scrawlings the only sign of artistic expression in the space which is known for its dilapidation and slummy characteristics. Presumed to be ruled by poverty and peril. A fresh coat of paint, a street clean up scheme and increased security surveillance are but a few of the efforts which have altered the atmosphere that clings to the formerly known Ellis Park and its surroundings.

The Johannesburg Development Agency's (JDA) CEO, Lael Bethlehem states that one of the most striking components of the revamping there, is the public art aspect. The main example of this is Doung Jaheangeer's new sculpture, titled Inventing Mythologies, located just outside the stadium. The elements of wind and water are brought to life in his towering silver artwork.
This is achieved by the creative representation of the acts of kite flying and fishing atop a giant entanglement of steel which forms a ball. It links intricately to the concept of soccer and play, as the ball image gives rise to those ideas. The artist was inspired by two great local writers, Athol Fuggard and Gcina Mhlope, as their literary works explore these two element's positions in African mythology.
Barely a leap away from the mythological scene outside Coca-Cola Park, sits the residential area, labelled The Wedge. It is the product of an authentic Jo'burg "Rags to Riches" tale, in the context that the term "riches" in this part suggests the obtaining of life's small luxuries such as electricity and running water. The 17 homes that stand there now enjoy this restoration of basic services as well as a better view from their windows. The tiny neighbourhood has been electrified by street art too.
One of the houses boasts a brilliant exterior as its wall is now the site of a striking mosaic. The medley of colourful tile chips and glass connect to create a visual portrayal of the 1922 Battle of Ellis Park. Its creators, Lindsay and Jacob Ramaboya captured the tension of the event of white miners who striked against the Jan Smuts Government because they feared job losses to black miners. This segment of Johannesburg's layered history will remain depicted there as a memory splintered into being through inventive bits of ceramic.

With the countdown to the World Cup Soccer ticking away, with less than 100 days left on the timer, our city has got butterflies in its tummy, along with its inhabitants. A new event and chapter to South Africa's history is about to be added to its existing multifaceted one. This time it is an all round positive one that is sure to inspire all South Africans into being proud of the artwork that is our home.

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What Others Said

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Geez said
on 09 March 2010

jozi