Johannesburg is known for a plethora of cultural experiences, not least of which its celebrated art scene. However, you don’t always have to visit a high-end gallery to see true art. The city proudly showcases some of its best artwork on the streets.
‘The words of the prophets are written on the subway walls‘, sang Simon & Garfunkel in their hit song The Sound of Silence. How true this is in Jozi. Ranging from protest and activism to celebrating the beauty of the country and her people, you can find it all in the form of spray painting in and around the City of Gold.
Maboneng, Braamfontein and certain parts of Soweto are the mural hotspots, with new artists and artworks popping up seemingly every day.
According to Polity, a 2003 bylaw states that there is a prohibition on graffiti on any structure relating to public roads without permission. Furthermore, Section 16 of the City of Johannesburg’s 2008 Public Art Policy mentions an ‘Anti-Graffiti Rapid Response Unit’ responsible for the removal of ‘objectionable and unwarranted graffiti from key points’.
Hence, it is important to only support artists and their works when they are done legally and without destruction or damaging of private property, which amounts to vandalism. However, many graffiti scenes are commissioned works with permission from the City of Johannesburg.
So, take a drive or go on foot, you might even get surprised by a few hidden gems along the way. If you see the artist’s name on the work, do them a favour by tagging them on your social media pictures for support. You should know that there are many places to visit in Johannesburg.
Here are some of the best places to go and marvel at the colourful artworks.
Melle Street, Braamfontein
View this post on Instagram
Soweto, Orlando West
View this post on Instagram
55 Malibongwe Drive, Linden
View this post on Instagram
Maboneng Precinct
View this post on Instagram
De Beer Street, Braamfontein
View this post on Instagram
Jewel City, Maboneng
View this post on Instagram
Sivewright Avenue
View this post on Instagram
Also Read: The 20 Best Restaurants in Johannesburg
Newtown
View this post on Instagram
If you don’t know the areas well and would feel more comfortable going on a guided tour, support these operators who have all the inside information:
Picture: Unsplash
Also Read: The 13 Best Maboneng Restaurants
