The restoration of public art in Johannesburg’s inner city is a key initiative within the City of Johannesburg’s Arts, Culture, and Heritage restoration programme. This project aims to rejuvenate neglected public art pieces, breathing new life into the city’s cultural fabric.
Neo Ramushu, a member of the Spaza Arts Gallery team, reflects on the mixed emotions experienced during the restoration process. “It was saddening to see the damage and the lack of care. Street dwellers, for whatever reason, chose to shelter by the artwork, often obscuring its beauty. Seeing some art pieces compromised was a disheartening experience.”
Public art plays a crucial role in fostering a connection between people and their surroundings by offering historical and cultural insights.
One of the notable pieces recently restored is the “Mother and Child” steel-welded sculpture, located on the pavement at 190-170 Lillian Ngoyi Street. Created by artists Simon Mthimkhulu, Ezekiel Budeli, and Tshidiso Makhete, this sculpture captures the unique experiences of commuters who have frequented the Bree Taxi Rank.
For Ramushu, the restoration of this monumental sculpture was deeply personal. “During the restoration, I was reminded of my late grandmother, whom I loved dearly. When she visited us in Soweto, we would collect her from Bree Street, and she would hold my hand as we walked to the Soweto taxis. This piece of art is particularly special to me.”
The creators of “Mother and Child” captured a narrative that resonates not only with Ramushu but with many others who have a connection to the Bree Taxi Rank. Public art connects with people in a special way, bringing memories to life and fostering a deeper appreciation for the artwork.
Another artist, Dionne Macdonald, who specialises in public mosaics, expressed her satisfaction with the newly restored mosaic pillars under the bridge at 15 Joe Street in Newtown, Doornfontein. “I had always wanted to restore these mosaic pillars. Thanks to the City for giving us the opportunity to be part of the inner-city regeneration,” Macdonald said.
She and Eric Itzkin, the City of Johannesburg’s Deputy Director of Arts, Culture, and Heritage, discussed the restoration work, which included notable pieces like the Angel of the North, Jewel City Gateway Artwork, Resting Cows, and the Trinity Sessions.
Itzkin emphasised the ongoing nature of the restoration programme: “With more resources, a lot more can be done. I’m looking forward to restoring even more pieces.”
To explore the city’s public art collection, visit the Johannesburg Public Art Catalogue at https://arts-culture-heritage.joburg/johannesburg-public-art-catalogue to discover the beauty and significance of these artistic treasures that the City of Johannesburg offers.
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