After more than a year of preparations, the Joubert Park Public Art Project launched on October 20 to a crowd of 2 000 people. Kathryn Smith writes: The stream of visitors seemed never ending, wandering through the space, hanging out in the park and watching enthralled as Elu Kieser, laden with bird cages, hobbled
en pointe along the wall of the empty fountain, eventually setting pairs of live birds free. After an emotional welcome by Ractliffe, which encouraged cheers from an audience of artists, culture workers, Joubert Park residents and members of the public, Brendhan Dickerson crowned the evening with a spectacular fire sculpture display to the sounds of live karaoke by Amichai Tahor. Along with a great exhibition of works by some 30 local and international artists, the evening asserted the gallery's important role in contemporary South African art and created a safe and vibrant space in the inner city where it now seems that anything is possible. Events continue till the end of the year.
Also this month: Artthrob celebrated its 50th edition, moved to new host World Online and launched a weekly email update (subscribe here). Our search engine will be up and running again shortly.
READER REVIEWS: Beezy Bailey responds to an article on Paul du Toit. Join the fray - email us your views.