The V&A Waterfront are using this festive season to celebrate local talent and environmental sustainability. For its festive season experience, themed Joy from Africa to the World, the V&A partnered with over 140 African artisans to create a lively exhibition made from upcycled materials.
In 2017, the V&A pledged to eliminate single-use plastics. This commitment meant that they needed to use wastepaper from their waste recovery recycling centre, repurpose past décor, and choose sustainable and recycled materials. They also committed to supporting the local economy. Joy from Africa to the World is an experience aligned to these goals.
The festive exhibition provides a platform for local businesses and entrepreneurs. Some of the entrepreneurs and businesses included are, Monkeybiz, which empowers women to sell their artwork, Wola Nani, crafters who contributed to the creation of trees and upcycled baubles on display, and Our Workshop, who created the upcycled plastic chandeliers on display. The work will be on display at the Waterfront over the holidays.
The goal of this exhibition is to highlight how amazing African creativity is. The V&A wants to ensure a positive and authentic narrative about Africa and hopes to show off all the things that can be done with waste.
Some of the installations to look out for include the Summer Palace, open from December 1, where children can meet Mother Earth and The Guardian of Joy from December 7 – 24 ; the Joy Market, which features a selection of locally made decorations for sale from November 6 to December 24; the giant planets made from up-cycled materials (November 22); and the Baobab of Wishes, which will be lit up on December 1. Visitors will be allowed to tie a message of joy to the tree.
Keep an eye out for these amazing local creations on display at the V&A Waterfront this festive season. You wouldn’t believe how beautiful these recycled materials can become after a little South African creativity.
Image: Facebook/V&A Waterfront