CAPE TOWN A CANVAS FOR THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC ART FESTIVAL

Cape Town has at least five new large scale street murals courtesy of the International Public Art Festival.

One of the highlight is a piece by South African artist Elléna Lourens titled “Embracing Openness”, part of a collaboration between the Consulate General of Belgium in Cape Town, Baz-Art, IPAF, the City of Cape Town and Cape Town Pride.

The mural is situated in Alfred Street, De Waterkant, a neighbourhood described by some as LGBTQ+ friendly.

It is also where Cape Town’s pride parade will set off when it takes next month.

“Embracing Openness is very much about all the vibrancy of our cultures, by representing the diversity in two ways, in terms of love but also by offering a diversity of perspectives,” said Lourens.

“I wanted to create something impactful yet warm so striking but not intimidating, to communicate what it feels like to embrace openness. The location means it will be visible to all celebrating pride.”

Lourens’ piece is among several produced during the 8th edition of the International Public Art Festival (IPAF).

CoACT | COLLAB

As part of the festival’s efforts to integration art and activism, IPAF partnered with Belgian artists Roa for The Rhino Project to raise awareness rhino conservation.

This project sheds light on the urgent need to combat poaching in South Africa, offering a moving and thought-provoking interactive art activation that invites the public to engage with the serious issues surrounding wildlife conservation.

Centred on the theme “CoACT | C0LLAB”, this year’s festival placed a focus on creative collaboration, breaking down barriers between different art forms, disciplines and cultures.

This collaborative approach was intended to redefine the Mother City’s public spaces, making them vibrant hubs of cultural connection and community engagement.

“Cape Town is not just a destination; it’s a canvas for transformation. IPAF 2024 is not only a celebration of artistic expression but a testament to the collaborative spirit that drives our community forward,” said Founder and Creative Director at Baz-Art Melissa Cucci.

“CoACT | C0LLAB is more than a theme; it’s a call to action for everyone to participate in shaping the city’s artistic narrative. Through collaborative initiatives, we aim to redefine public spaces and make them vibrant hubs of cultural connection and community engagement.”

Johannesburg-based Muralist and Illustrator Yolo Liso Xulu took part in his first IPAF bringing along experience of having showcased his works at esteemed galleries like The Viewing Room in Johannesburg.

His work, drawing inspiration from street fashion, aims to create visually pleasing and colourful pieces.

“For me, art doesn’t always need to carry a deep meaning; I believe in the positive impact of colour on people. Growing up in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, where art was scarce, I recognized the importance of exposure. Murals, in particular, expose you to new perspectives and make you think,” said Xulu.

GUIDED TOURS 

Since the festival’s inception in 2017.  Baz-Art has commissioned over 200 public murals for IPAF.

The street art forms part of the guided tours led by some of Cape Town’s experienced tour guides. These tours offer an immersive experience, allowing participants to explore the city’s creativity.

The tour includes street murals in the City Centre and Salt River boasts some iconic street art from 20 years ago.

You can book a tour through Baz-Art