In a striking addition to the urban landscape, Cross Street, in the vibrant heart of Bellville CBD, has been transformed into a living canvas with the unveiling of the Good Morning Sunshine Mural.
This public art project was a collaboration between BAZ-ART, an organisation that creates public intersections using urban art and the better. bellville. together. initiative, a groundbreaking City-funded project aimed at revitalising the Bellville region through community engagement and sustainable practices. Since its launch in February 2023, the better. bellville. together. placemaking initiative has been a beacon of progress, driving economic growth, fostering community cohesion, and promoting environmental sustainability.
The Good Morning Sunshine Mural is the latest better. bellville. together. themed mural, and is a testament to the initiative’s commitment to enriching the cultural fabric of Bellville. Selected strategically for its prominence along Cross Street, an important pedestrian thoroughfare connecting commuters from the Bellville Public Transport Interchange (PTI) to their destinations, the location of the mural was chosen to maximise its impact.
Alex Jongens, project lead for better. bellville. together. beautification initiative shared, “The collective purpose of introducing elements like murals, gardens, and new waste separation bins is to enhance the aesthetics and atmosphere of the street. The Good Morning Sunshine Mural serves as a visual lighthouse, providing beauty and inspiration to residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”
Mernette Swartz also known as BlakZ, the talented artist behind the mural, brought the theme to life with vibrant colours and a message of positivity. “The theme of the mural is to say ‘hello’ to the people of Bellville,” she explained. “It’s a colourful greeting, saying ‘good morning sunshine,’ reflecting the spirit of Bellville and the better. bellville. together. creative identity.”
The community stands to benefit greatly from this initiative, as the mural brightens up Cross Street, providing a beautiful focal point for residents of nearby retirement communities and neighbouring businesses. During the project, the mural sparked excitement and conversation among passersby and business owners alike. Its installation has even inspired neighbouring businesses to beautify their own storefronts by using paint and adding creative colour, adding to the revitalisation of the area.
Public art plays a vital role in inspiring hope, fostering community pride, and transforming public spaces into vibrant cultural hubs. The Good Morning Sunshine Mural is the ninth addition to the growing collection of public art within walking distance of the Bellville CBD, establishing the busy metropole as a vibrant destination for art enthusiasts and visitors.
The better. bellville. together. creative identity, influenced by the people and activities of Bellville, serves as a unifying thread woven through each mural, creating a recognisable language of art throughout the CBD.
“The magic of public art lies in its ability to evoke diverse responses and spark conversations,” noted Jongens. “A great public mural like the Good Morning Sunshine Mural captures the imagination, enriches the community, and contributes to the cultural vibrancy of our city.”
For more information on the better. together placemaking initiatives and upcoming projects, visit www.bettertogether.africa and follow @betterbellvilletogether.
