The Greater Tygerberg Partnership (GTP) is pleased to announce the completion of the final instalment of their groundbreaking mosaic installation project in De Lange Street, Bellville. Councillor Mercia Kleinsmith recently laid the final tile, marking the conclusion of this transformative initiative.
With a total of 35 captivating mosaic tiles, including 13 unveiled in May 2023 during phase 1, and the recent addition of 22 in September 2023 for phase 2, De Lange Street is now a canvas of unity, pride, and vibrant heritage. The heart of these artworks lies in celebrating the incredible diversity that defines Bellville, drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of nationalities that call this important economic node home.
Monique Muller, the project manager at GTP, emphasises the deeper significance of the mosaic installation, stating, “This mosaic is more than adding a splash of colour and vibrancy to our beautiful city. It is a celebration of the rich cultural fabric that makes Bellville so special. Through these intricate designs, we aim to convey the shared experiences, histories, and journeys of individuals from diverse backgrounds who have chosen to live, work and do business here.”
To enhance the visual impact of the mosaic tiles, unique designs celebrating the diversity of Bellville are featured in De Lange Street. A painted frame surrounds each tile, displaying details about the mosaic, and a painted line, the selected colour, connects these frames along the sidewalk. Additionally, large planters at existing tree bases have been painted to illustrate the national flags of different nationalities in Bellville, further contributing to the overall beautification of the walkway.
Commenting on the project, Mercia Kleinsmith, Chairperson of sub council says; “It is an honour and a privilege to have been part of the final stage of the beautification project of the sidewalk in De Lange Street. The City, together with the GTP, has been tasked by the mayor to beautify the city’s biggest central business district and it has been a welcoming site to see how the project has progressed. Thank you to the GTP for the work that has been done and may the wonderful collaboration between the City and the GTP continue to strive with abundant success”.
Safe2Park, a valued partner in this final phase, has covered half the cost of the paint, demonstrating the collaborative efforts of local businesses to transform Bellville into a cleaner, safer, and more attractive haven for residents and small businesses.
Reflecting on the completion of the second phase, Muller invites everyone to “follow the blue art line, connecting these masterpieces and foster a sense of belonging for all. Bellville’s transformation continues, one mosaic at a time.”
The GTP’s mosaic installation project stems from an extensive public participation process held in November 2022, actively engaging with a wide range of Bellville residents to determine the most impactful theme for the mosaic in various locations. The indigenous nature of flowers emerged as the top choice, representing the community’s colourful heritage, and receiving the highest number of votes.
As the mosaic installation project nears completion, the GTP remains committed to the ongoing transformation of Bellville, creating a dynamic and inclusive environment that celebrates the community’s diversity and fosters unity.
For more information on this and other Bellville art projects, visit www.gtp.org.za or email info@gtp.org.za.
