Inspired by the iconic status, influence, and his own love of the Muizenberg huts and its enormous boost to and revitalisation of tourism in the area, Ward 100 councillor Sean Stacey wanted to bring something with similar effect to boost tourism in Gordon’s Bay.
His idea? Recruiting community members to get involved in the painting of murals in all the popular local landmarks, representative of the culture and beauty that is found all over Gordon’s Bay. His first target where splashes of bright, vibrant coats of paint and art will bring transformation to dull, plain, unimaginative walls were the walls at the Gordon’s Bay beachfront close to the Spur.
The objective of the project, he says, is mainly to boost economic growth and development in the area by attracting more tourism activity. “When I took on the role of ward councillor, I made safety and economic growth and what it entails my two key focus areas and everything I do is aimed at achieving results in these two areas,” he says.
“While I was brainstorming ideas to boost the economic growth of the area by means of tourism, the Muizenberg huts and how it draws tourists to that area came to mind and I thought what we can do in our own area do something, but original that will attract tourists.”
The idea to paint the beach murals at the beachfront was born and interest was hyped on his Facebook page with the launch of an art competition among pupils at local schools, with the winning entries chosen as the design for the murals.
Winning entries were chosen after a tough judging process and will now be featured on the walls. So with designs selected, paint sourced, location identified, the only requirement is for hands to come out and help paint and create the designs on the day.
“This is an open invite to all community members to come out on the day, get messy and have fun with us. The whole point of this project is to get community inclusivity, to try and make it everyone’s project and boost community spirit, the more the merrier,” he says.
No artistic skills are needed, says Mr Stacey, as professional artists will be present on the day to do the finishing touches and assist and guide community painters.
The announcement on Facebook garnered great response and excitement among users. Martie Strydom says: “Exciting project! Thank you.”
“Great initiative,” says Facebook user, Shane Holland. Another user, Carl Hofmeester writes: “What a lovely project. Thanks for including our kids.”
Mr Stacey says he set funding aside in his 2024/2025 ward allocation budget to kickstart the project but says the funding will not be nearly enough in terms of their plans with the expansion of the project.
Presently to make this project and its expansion a success to and have far reaching effect, they do need input specifically financial input from community locals and businesses. The paint will be supplied on the day and participants need only bring their own paint brushes or other paint utensils.
The need is now to raise more funds to expand the project so more people can join in on beautifying their local area with a fresh coat of paint and creativity. Funding will be allocated to buy more paint as well as compensate painters, Mr Stacey has recruited to prepare the murals.
People can take along more paint, and donations of outdoor paint from businesses will be gladly welcomed.
To enquire about the paint brand, shade and type required, WhatsApp Mr Stacey on 061 604 2165. Businesses or individuals wishing to make a financial contribution to boost the initiative are welcome to contact him on the same number.
The meeting place for anyone interested in joining the fun on the big community painting day to paint the murals on the Gordon’s Bay beachfront is at the gym play area close to the Gordon’s Spur, on Saturday September 28, at 10.30am
