THE STORY BEHIND THE COLLABORATION BETWEEN ANTON SMIT AND GRAFFITI ARTISTS
“ The idea for this artwork originated many years ago with a fascination with the Easter Island heads. The heads are at first monolithic stone heads – a modern version of the Easter Island heads, like messengers from a forgotten past. Then they take a quantum leap into the future by being transformed into street art with cool contemporary faces painted on them, giving them a brand-new identity relating to the city and city life. An urban landscape of the City of Gold – proclaiming a message to the future – one of enhanced creativity and freedom. A message of Life in Abundance. A message of inspired children who enter boldly into this “ – Anton Smit
The concept of merging graffiti and sculpture arose from a fortuitous encounter with art student Roan Hendrikz. Caught painting on a sculpture donated by Anton to the Arts Association in Pretoria, Roan’s actions sparked a unique response from Anton. Rather than chastising the young artist, Anton proposed an inspired punishment: Roan would annually bestow the sculpture with a new and inspired graffiti creation. The incident ignited conversations and debate, drawing attention to the sculpture’s expressive power and embodying the ever-evolving nature of art.
“Every time the sculpture became vandalised, they had to re-plaster it. But after the constant refurbishing, the gallery decided that it would be easier to paint it white. As soon as they painted it white; I saw the sculpture as an open canvas. I decided to ‘vandalise’ the sculpture in my own way. But instead, paint it in a fresh and exciting way for the public to re-discover. As the years passed on, the sculpture became a platform for me to conceptually experiment with. I once wrapped it with plastic covering. Also, I used plastered sand and covered the statue with a simple line relief. My memories of the sculpture was an important stage in my artistic development; and I considered it as my first step into the public art. I hope Anton and I can one day collaborate again.” – Roan Hendrikz
“Urban Echoes” stands as a testament to the creative resilience that arises from the fusion of diverse artistic expressions. Anton Smit’s creative vision, combined with the energy of graffiti art, captivates and transcends the boundaries of conventional artistic practice.