Times Of Swaziland: Ezulwini bus stops  transformed into works of art

Ezulwini bus stops  transformed into works of art
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BY GIA ARMSTRONG (Guest writer) on 23/05/2013 01:44:00


MBABANE-Yebo! ArtReach has begun working on a new project as part of their
ongoing initiative themed ‘Art Goes Public’.
The aim of the project is to promote the exposure to and understanding of visual
arts in Swaziland.
Over the last week, local artists Thabo Lukhele, Joseph Mushipi, Sunshine
Nxumalo, Philip Mdludli, Obed Chipwepwe and Celimpilo Dlamini have been working
on painting stunning murals onto bus shelters across Ezulwini.
Each bus stop has been used as a canvas for one artist, who was given the
freedom to plan their own individual design, while the other artists helped to
create the final piece of work.
The aim of this project is to transform public spaces into works of art in a way
that hopes to bring art to the general public. ArtReach continues to collaborate
with local artists, and this project aims to promote their work by exposing it
to the Swazi community. This will hopefully allow the public to engage with art
on a daily basis.
Experience
Project co-ordinator Anne Caroline Franklin described it as a ‘win-win’
situation as the artists would gain valuable experience and get paid for their
work while the public and tourists will enjoy the view.
The project has been sponsored by the US Embassy in Swaziland and Star Paint.
Star Paint has also donated paint and painting supplies for other ArtReach mural
projects across Swaziland and will continue to support the ArtReach initiative
throughout the phase of its ‘Art Goes Public’ project.
Director of Star Paint, Roberto Russo said of his company’s collaboration with
ArtReach: “We are extremely proud to be a part of such a great initiative that
provides a platform for talented local artists to showcase their creativity.
Yebo ArtReach has done a superb job in colouring Ezulwini and empowering local
talent.”