New mosaic celebrates Bellville’s cultural diversity
The Greater Tygerberg Partnership (GTP) and mosaic artist Kerry Atherstone from Bit-by-Bit Mosaic have embarked on a vibrant mission to transform Bellville into a cleaner, safer, and more attractive haven for residents to live, work, and play.
With great excitement, the GTP announces the completion of the first phase of their groundbreaking mosaic installation project, which took place on Sunday, 28 May 2023. A total of 13 mesmerising mosaic tiles now adorns the streets of Bellville, setting the stage for the eagerly anticipated second phase, scheduled to commence in September 2023.
At the heart of these captivating artworks lies a celebration of journeys and the incredible diversity that defines Bellville. Drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of nationalities that call Bellville home, each mosaic tile showcases a national flower representing the heritage of different communities.
Monique Muller, the project manager at GTP, says, “This mosaic installation 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 make Bellville their home.”
Other than the choice of the King Protea, which embodies the essence of South Africa. The Yellow Trumpet, Calla Lily, Lotus Flowers and Gerbera Daisy all pay homage to the varies other countries and cultures.
The phased approach to the unveiling of the mosaic installation is intentional, to help ignite a sense of anticipation and allow the community to fully appreciate each mosaic tile as it is revealed. With every new phase, excitement builds, creating an immersive experience that brings the entire district together.
“Bellville is a place where people from all walks of life can come together to live, work, and play, and this installation stands as a testament to the contributions and presence of various nationalities in the area. It fosters a sense of belonging and pride among residents while sparking conversations, curiosity, and understanding about diverse cultures, customs, and backgrounds,” adds Muller.
The GTP’s mosaic installation project stems from an extensive public participation process which was held in November 2022. During this time, the GTP actively engaged with a wide range of Bellville residents, including foreign nationals, to determine the most impactful theme for the mosaic in various locations. While many locals expressed their admiration for the South African flag and their sense of pride associated with it, they felt it had become commonplace and overused. However, when the indigenous nature of the flowers was shown and explained, it quickly emerged as the top choice, receiving the highest number of votes.
The GTP is committed to the ongoing transformation of Bellville, creating a dynamic and inclusive environment that celebrates the community’s diversity and fosters unity. As the mosaic installation project continues to unfold, Bellville will shine brighter than ever, captivating hearts and minds with its artistry and representing the colourful heritage of its residents.
For more information on this and other Bellville art projects visit: www.gtp.org.za or email [email protected]
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Nadia Hearn
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