GEORGE NEWS - Visitors to any of the Wilderness beaches are sure to have noticed the colourful murals that have been brightening the ablution blocks in recent months.
These are thanks to a new municipal Visual Artwork Management Policy (2023) that allows not only for advertising of businesses through mural artwork, but also for beautifying public spaces through murals.
The policy aims to give artists the opportunity to display their work in a controlled manner while also enhancing the visual appeal of public areas and creating a unique sense of place.
It was drafted by Winsley Meyer, a young candidate town planner who joined the municipality in 2022 as part of the ISDG programme.
Meyer had previously been involved in the review and amendment process for the Outdoor Advertising By-law and the 'gap' in the policy was discovered during this review.
This gap was a key reason for developing the Visual Artwork Management Policy.
“The outdoor advertising by-law review gave me the background knowledge to start drafting the visual artwork policy. From there, I conducted extensive research, reviewing local and international policies and guidelines on various forms of visual artwork, design, and maintenance," said Meyer.
"I’ve always had a passion for visual arts and design, so being granted the opportunity to draft this policy was incredibly exciting for me. I enjoyed the process and am thrilled to see it implemented by such skilled artists. I look forward to seeing more artwork in our community."
Winsley Meyer, the candidate town planner who drafted the Visual Arts Management Policy.
The first project under the new policy was undertaken in December 2023 by Kaelyn Haffern, a student at Glenwood House High School in George and a talented street artist.
Funded by the Wilderness Ratepayers and Residents Association (WRRA), Kaelyn volunteered her time and talent to beautify the wall and substation along Station Road leading to Leentjiesklip Beach in Wilderness.
This mural was done in December 2023 by Glenwood High School learner Kaelyn Haffern.
Following the success of Kaelyn’s project, the WRRA facilitated and funded additional projects by Garden Route artists Philip Denn and Fourie Ackerman.
These artists were commissioned to enhance the public facilities at Main Beach Wilderness (near Salina’s), Leentjiesklip, and the western wall at Main Beach.
The artwork at the main beach in Wilderness, done by Fourie Ackerman and Phillip Denn.
MMC for Planning and Development and Ward 4 Councillor Marlene Barnardt noted that the Visual Artwork Management Policy allows for artwork to be displayed on both public and private properties, excluding outdoor advertising.
It also identifies designated spaces that serve as practice areas for temporary mural art forms, where emerging artists can develop their skills.
“George Municipality is committed to celebrating the diverse talent within our communities and aims to create a platform for artistic expression. By collaborating with the art community, we hope to enhance the unique qualities of the city and its people,” she said.
The artwork by Fourie Ackerman at Leentjiesklip has given these public facilities a vibrant new look, transforming them into lively and welcoming spaces.
Artists interested in submitting proposals can contact the Directorate of Human Settlements, Planning, and Development via email at znorawana@george.gov.za. A copy of the policy is available upon request or can be downloaded from the municipal website via this link https://tinyurl.com/45m2wp9f
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