This week heralds the launch of the inaugural Design Week South Africa in Johannesburg, a vibrant celebration of creativity and innovation taking place from Thursday, October 10, to Sunday, October 13.
With an array of discussions, exhibitions, and experiential events, the four-day extravaganza aims to illuminate the city and showcase its rich tapestry of design and urbanism.
Organised by a dynamic curatorial team, including urbanist Roland Postma, Design Week South Africa, powered by Yoco, promises to transcend the traditional confines of a mere exhibition.
“It is not just another exhibition or talk shop but rather intentional pop-ups situated in working urban spaces across the city to solve real problems relevant to our struggles as an urbanised country,” Postma shared, highlighting the initiative’s commitment to addressing pressing urban challenges.
Visitors to Johannesburg can expect a delightful mix of local flavour and creative ingenuity, with prominent Joburg-based brands and showrooms participating.
Among the highlights is a ticketed dinner hosted by “Masterchef” contestant Tebogo Mabye at the iconic 44Stanley’s Bean There, set for Thursday.
This culinary experience is just one of the many captivating events on the agenda, which also includes a fascinating presentation titled I Love You I Hate You by Bradley Kirshenbaum of Love Jozi, and Laurice Taitz-Buntman of Johannesburg in Your Pocket.
Adding to the enriching offerings, the internationally-renowned architectural firm, dhk, will open its studio for an interactive session, inviting attendees to engage with cutting-edge design concepts.
On Friday, the groundbreaking Soweto-based Soulart Foundation will kick off its free, two-day sustainable art and design workshop, while the culinary design studio, Borwa, will showcase a unique exhibition at Victoria Yards, merging taste and aesthetics seamlessly.
Moreover, the non-profit organisation, Jozi My Jozi, will lead an insightful Urban Renewal minibus tour, guided by Stephen Du Preez, founder of Local Abode and member of Jozi My Jozi.
This engaging excursion will spotlight inner-city renewal and revival projects, taking participants through key locations such as Ellis Park and Ghandi Square, emphasising the collective efforts of corporates, organisations, and the City of Joburg.
On the final day of the event, architecture enthusiasts can partake in “An Exploration of Joburg’s Alleyways”. Hosted by urbanists Clare Chappel and Mark Schaerer, this family-friendly tour promises to unveil the hidden charm of Braxton’s forgotten alleyways. Attendees will also have the opportunity to join Mamakashaka for a thought-provoking discussion on “Design in Bloom” at their creative space in Braamfontein.
As Postma aptly stated: “For me, as a young South African and urbanist, Design Week South Africa will continue the vital dialogue that the World Design Capital 2014 brought to our Mother City, helping us find solutions, cross-pollinate ideas, and cultivate our collective action.“
The Star
siyabonga.sithole@inl.co.za