By Siyanda Zinyanga
In Makhanda, crumbling walls and abandoned buildings are being turned into a form of self expression as graffiti and mural art takes on the role of reflecting our society’s values and history.
This work gives the community a prospect to retrospect and introspect.
According to Mook Lion, a local graffiti artist, these creative works are not only a way of resisting or rebelling, they also make the city look beautiful and attractive.
Our tour with Mook Lion began in New Street, where he showed us a picture that he was commissioned to do by the National Festival Arts. “Graffiti,” Mook said, “it is a way of connecting to people within the society and giving presence to the unheard, to make people feel like they are part of society.”
Then he guided us to hidden sports where graffiti appears in passages and driveways. Each painted wall has its own story that talks to people within Makhanda and beyond.
This art speaks to a community that is still reflecting on its historical havocs and the transformation that is still working towards.
