, , ,

4 Inspiring Spaces and Places in Johannesburg

, , ,

When you think of Johannesburg there are many pictures that may come to mind - highways with fast cars (or very slow ones with the terrible traffic!), tall flashy buildings housing the headquarters of the top companies in the country or materials such as concrete, glass and asphalt along with the accompanying noise and pollution. A fast paced city with people on the move and money to be made.

While I agree that there are negative sides to Johannesburg, like all cities, I have made a point of exploring some of the lesser known hideouts, especially those that have a strong nature and beauty component, to discover the hidden gems and softer side of the city that we don’t always see.

View over Johannesburg (Image credit pixabay.com)

View over Johannesburg (Image credit pixabay.com)

Here are a few spaces that I’ve discovered and are well worth visiting:

1. Monument to 6 Million Jewish Martyrs in Europe

An impressive sculpture designed by Herman Wald can be visited at the Jewish quarter of the Westpark Cemetery. It consists of six bronze fists each 1.5m high holding shofars which stand a further 6m tall. A twisting ‘Eternal flame’ sits in the centre of the three arches that the sculpture creates. It was unveiled on the the 10th of May 1959 by Rabbi M. Neurock, member of the Israeli parliament who specially travelled to S.A for that purpose. The inscription on the plaque at the foot of the memorial reads “In everlasting memory of the six million Jews. Victims of man’s inhumanity to man who perished in the death camps of Europe 1939-1945. ‘Thou Shalt Not Forget’ “

See a previous Blog post on this Sculpture here.

For further information and historical references see Herman Wald’s website.

2. RMB Think Precinct

This urban square, located on the corner of Fredman Drive & Gwen Lane in Sandton Central also functions as an outdoor art gallery. It is situated at the entrance to the Rand Merchant Bank (RMB) headquarters and houses several of RMB’s artworks by famous South African artists including Eduardo Villa, Pieter Greyvensteyn, Angus Taylor, Guy Pierre Du Toit and Marieke Prinsloo-Rowe. The Think Bench by Louis Olivier which is on display here can also be seen at the University of Pretoria and the University of Stellenbosch.

“Art captures the spirit of the time, transform lives and bind together, not only hearts and souls, but entire societies and nations. Having a Corporate Art Collection on-site helps to reflect the culture of the company in an unspoken way. For example, Africa’s 'Fearless Girl' expresses how diversity and gender equality are valued and embraced. Our people and clients have always had easy access to the palpable energy that original creativity exudes. Artworks are generously displayed across workspaces and our newly refurbished Think Precinct hosts our most extraordinary sculptures in one central, outdoor area, for all to engage,” says RMB CEO, James Formby (www.rmb.co.za/page/rmb-welcomes-africas-fearless-girl)

If you are visiting Sandton be sure to also see the iconic statue of Nelson Mandela at the Sandton City Shopping Centre. The only statue that you will see of this hero that is larger can be found in front of the Union Buildings in Pretoria.

Urban-Slimeline-4.jpg

3. Nirox Sculpture Park

A most inspiring expanse of beautiful trees, lakes and waterways located in the Cradle of Humankind about 45 minutes from Johannesburg. You can discover something new every time you visit this park . The Park is open to the public on weekends and public holidays 10:00-16:00, or by special arrangements during the week.

Their aim to support the arts in all its forms can be clearly seen expressed in the numerous exhibitions and functions they have hosted there. Since NIROX’ beginnings in 2006, we continue to create and share an atmosphere that empowers, inspires and becalms artists; where visitors continue to be nourished with art in nature. (www.niroxarts.com/copy-of-sculpture-park)

360.JPG

The Sculpture Park regularly hosts independently curated exhibitions, functions, concerts and performances. They have hosted more than 300 resident artists and their aim is to encourage engagement and promotion of the arts in all forms. The restaurant on site is called ‘And then there was Fire’ and serves woodfire grill “We want to share with you the atmosphere of this place, the food that the earth provides and the beauty that surrounds us.” (www.andthentherewasfire.com)

4. Victoria Yards

The redevelopment of this sprawling light industrial site (30,000m2) is the brainchild of the developer behind 44 Stanley. A once derelict and mostly abandoned complex of buildings has been redeveloped and transformed into a haven for artists and creatives with a strong emphasis on skill sharing and community empowerment. The buildings are interconnected with spaces that are filled with vegetables and fruit trees making these areas both beautiful and functional. Urban agriculture is one of the many elements of this hub of creativity where community is encouraged to engage.

The project has won several awards: “The Urban Land Institute’s inaugural ULI Europe Awards for Excellence, which recognise outstanding urban development projects in the EMEA region. Developer and owner: Mr Brian Green – lead developer and consultant/planner. Architect: Boom Architects: Victoria Yards is a unique regeneration project that has risen from the ashes of a derelict industrial site to become an entrepreneurial incubation centre providing space at cost to social and artistic enterprises from the neighbourhood and beyond. It is an outstanding example of how creative thinking, community engagement and strong leadership can deliver immediate and evolving commercial, social and environmentally sustainable developments. Victoria Yards has created a thriving community that is as much about social cohesion and learning as it is a commercial enterprise. (www.victoriayards.co.za)

The project is a precedent for urban regeneration and gentrification while at the same time the developers have clearly been sensitive to the heritage of the site. The buildings have a raw beauty and several sculptures are dotted throughout the landscape. Some of the sculptures are by James Delaney who has his studio there and is known for his involvement in The Wilds. (Click here to read a previous post about The Wilds)

Visitors are welcome everyday. See Facebook for updates on their markets and upcoming events.


There are many beautiful and inspiring spaces in Johannesburg. Tell me about your favourite?

,

Modderfontein Bird and Sculpture Park

,
20210113_123031.jpg

One benefit of the slower start to the year was a exploring a few outdoor spaces I wouldn’t normally have visited. One such place is the Modderfontein Bird and Sculpture Park. If you don’t live nearby it is a bit of a drive but the name was intriguing and I wanted to discover it for myself.

The Modderfontein Bird and Sculpture Park is a family picnic park in the heart of Modderfontein, opposite the Flamingo Shopping Centre on the banks of the Flamingo Dam.

This wetland park is maintained and serviced by Nevada Group, ensuring that the park is clean, secure and monitored at all times. The local community and visitors from all over Johannesburg enjoy visiting the park to connect with friends and family in a safe environment.

Resident flocks of flamingos, ducks, geese and more provide both a picturesque and educational environment.

DOGGY PARK

A new additional Doggy Park section has been added to the greater Bird & Sculpture Park where your pups can enjoy off-leash fun, obstacle courses and more.

(https://theflamingo.co.za/modderfontein-bird-sculpture-park/)

I was impressed by the private partnership of the neighbouring shopping centre. As well as the community engagement that is evident through small plaques indicating the name of the person who sponsored that tree. There is also a Farmer’s Market held in the park and opportunities for community participation.

tree planting plaque

The Park has a strong identity that is reinforced through the Flamingo logo used throughout as well as the sculpture of the Flamingo in the centre of the lawn.

20210113_122729.jpg

 There is a spacious parking lot opposite the church and at the entrance you pay a small fee which goes towards maintenance of the park. The venue, I can imagine during non-covid days must be a wonderful space when filled with people for functions, markets and celebrations. The facilities include new bathrooms in a container, seating spaces, small jungle gyms for children and some sculptures dotting the landscape.

20210113_122834.jpg
modderfontein sculpture park


I was however disappointed that you couldn’t walk all the way around the dam and for such a large green space only a small part of it is accessible. But certainly worth a visit if you are in the area and looking for a lovely spot to picnic.

Location:

Cnr Queens St & Valley Rd,

Modderfontein, 1609.

Some More Pics of the Park:

If you know of any beautiful green spaces in and around Johannesburg please let me know! I would love to visit them and write a post about them.

Hennops Hiking Trail

20201230_081035.jpg

Only 30km from Pretoria and Johannesburg lies a gem of a nature experience called the Hennops Hiking Trail. It is a private farm that offers hiking routes, mountain bike routes as well as accommodation for overnight hikers. Please call ahead to confirm costs and make reservations although day hikes do not need to book in advance.

hennops map.jpg
Map images are not very clear - best to get copy of map/brochure from Hadeda Camp where the trails start from

Map images are not very clear - best to get copy of map/brochure from Hadeda Camp where the trails start from

There are three hiking route options to choose from, depending on your level of fitness and time allowance. The Dassie Route of 2.5km is an easy route (1-2hr duration) designed for parents to introduce their children to hiking. The 5km Zebra trail (2hrs) can be considered easy - average and a variety of game can be seen on this walk. The 10km Krokodilberg Route (4-5hrs) is an average-dfficult hike that is not recommended for children under 12 or unfit adults. It covers a broad part of the farm and beautiful views of the surrounding areas can be seen as you traverse the terrain. There is a variety of beautiful plants and trees to be seen as well as birdlife and small animals.

Dont forget: Comfortable day backpack, strong shoes and hat are essential. Pack snacks, wear sunblock and carry at least 1l. of water per person for every 2 hours of walking.

After your hike you can stay for lunch at the Hennops Picnic Spot (Loerie Camp) which has two swimming pools and braai facilities (closed during COVID so call ahead to check if you want to use these facilities).

Reservations and Enquiries:

Call 082 825 9205 or email info@hennops.co.za

Website: www.hennopstrails.co.za

GPS Co-ordinates: S25 47.887 E27 59.404

Any other great Hikes you know about? Please let me know!

, , ,

Everard Read Art Gallery on Keyes Art Mile, Rosebank

, , ,
Keyes Art Mile
keyes art mile map

The Everard Read Art Gallery is located on what is know as the ‘Keyes Art Mile’ and is surrounded be several other art destinations. The Circa Art Gallery is directly over the road, the building an artwork in itself, while the Goodman Gallery and Gallery MOMO are both a few kilometres away.

Green Wall St Teresas

While driving down the one way street of Keyes Avenue it is hard to miss the Green Wall Façade on the right hand side as part of St Teresa’s School. Here is a link to an article written about this Project by Johan Wentzel from Wildflower Nursery who assisted in selecting the plant species, all of which are endemic (only locally found) to the Highveld. All species are found in the Egoli Granite Grassland Vegetation Type and would have been likely to be found in the area before the urban intervention of city development.

keyes art mile

My visit also reminded me of the last botanical art exhibition I went to at this gallery (In May 2018) and I rediscovered the notes I took at one of the evening lectures I attended by Reinier Tereblanche on Butterflies. What stood out for me was the interdependence of butterflies and plants and reminded me again how important it is to plant indigenous and create gardens with diversity. Did you know there are 660 species of Butterfly in South Africa, second only to the tropics. This lecture was actually where I first heard about Tswalu Foundation.

Botanical Art Exhibition

As I love all things botanical I was keen to view the current botanical art exhibition by Gillian Condy. I had the privilege of seeing Gillian Condy in action when I did a botanical art course at The Cavern with Elsa Pooley which they run annually (See Post about The Cavern Here). Gillian is a renown botanical artist and she was appointed Artists in Residence (AiR) at the Tswalu Kalahari Reserve and made eight trips to the reserve over 14 months to illustrate the plants.

The exhibition is a beautiful reflection of the natural flora of the Tswalu reserve and really highlights the beauty, intricacy and marvel you can find in nature. It also reminded me that the Pangolin is one of the animals on the endangered list that few people know about. I remember growing up someone brought one in to my Dad’s veterinary practice and he called us to specially come see it. I don’t think I appreciated at the time what a rare event it was to see this animal.

tswalu botanical art

The first time my friend and I tried to visit the gallery there was a production on in Circa which is where the botanical art is on display so we explored the Brett Murray exhibition in the Everard Read building, followed by a delicious coffee and croissant at L’Atelier Bakery. The second time we visited I brought my two kids along (3 and 6 yrs) and to make it more exciting for them I drew up a scavenger hunt with photos so that they had things to find and discover (attached at the end if you want to take your kids). We explored the galleries followed by another visit to L’Atelier Bakery for their amazing pastries. I will need to find another excuse to visit again!

L’ Atelier Bakery

L’ Atelier Bakery

I was very moved by the exhibition by John Meyer of iconic moments in Nelson Mandela’s life and think that those paintings are an incredible reminder of what an amazing leader he was and what he did for our country. I highly recommend you visit Circa over the next while, not only to see the beautiful botanical artworks but also the stunning images of Nelson Mandela by John Meyer.

https://lifeofmandela.com/about-the-collection/

https://lifeofmandela.com/about-the-collection/






, ,

Gariep Nursery, Pretoria

, ,
20210206_141152.jpg

This small nursery can be found tucked away in the suburb of Faerie Glen, Pretoria. It specializes in succulent plants and claims to be one of the first nurseries in the country to make the rare Pachypodium namaquanum (the so-called Halfmens) more readily available. Other rare plants that they can supply include the Spiral Aloe from Lesotho, Aloe polyphylla, many Madagascan Pachypodium species, and Madagascan and Arabian Aloe species.

20210206_141408.jpg

I visited the nursery a few weeks back on a Sunday afternoon after following them on Instagram. I wanted to buy a specific plant - Haemanthus humilis spp. hirsutus - but it was unfortunately unavailable. (note to self - call ahead to book plants you want to specifically buy)

20210206_142605.jpg

I enjoyed visiting and exploring the garden which is filled with succulents and a wide range of indigenous plants, including species of Eucomis, Haemanthus, Hypoxis, Ledebouria, Scilla and Scadoxus. The gardens have great potential to be a beautiful destination where one can sit and enjoy the surrounding plants and birdlife.

​I am sure that the best time to visit is in the winter months when most of the aloe species and are in flower, I’ll definitely come back to see them!


Address: 309 Cliffendale Drive, Faerie Glen

Some text taken from Website: https://www.gariepplants.com/

Instagram: @gariepplants

,

Willow Feather Farm, Nursery with Farmyard

,

Willow Feather Farm is a nursery located in Irene Pretoria, near the Rietvlei Nature Reserve. It specialises in the growing and supply of frost hardy indigenous trees to the wholesale market. Their main lines of indigenous trees that they grow include: Wild Olive (Olea africana), River Bush Willow (Combretum erythrophyllum), Sweet Thorn (Acacia karoo), Karee (Rhus / Searsia Lancea), White Karee (Rhus / Searsia Pendulina) and White Stinkwood (Celtis africana). These are available in 20, 50, 100, 250 and 500 liter bags. Trees and plants can also be bought from their retail nursery and garden centre.

trees in nursery

The first time I visited this nursery (actually every time I visit this nursery!) is not to look at their plants but rather to visit their farmyard and tea garden with my kids. This garden and farmyard is a haven for children because there are not only animals to see and feed but also several jungle gyms throughout the shady garden to play on. The farm animals are a highlight and are kept in neat timber enclosures. A wide variety of animals can be seen including sheep, pigs, goats, cows, chicken, geese, peacocks, guinea pigs, rabbits  and even alpacas. For a small amount you can buy the feed which comes in small brown packets and which are labelled so that you can give each animal the correct food.

Our most recent visit to the farmyard was in January 2021 and although the restaurant was closed we could buy drinks from the cafe inside. Entrance is regulated and the small entrance fee of R50 on weekdays and R70 on weekends (no cash payments) ensures the garden is well maintained and children are safely contained within it.

On their website they describe visiting the garden like this “We would like to recreate the experiences and moments that we had on our farm as children. Many children of today do not have the opportunity to run and play in a large established garden, interact with a variety of farm animals, or have a picnic on the grass. We provide a venue where children can experience all of this in the safety and serenity of our farm. Bring your own picnic baskets, drinks and snacks and relax while the kids play.” (https://willowfeather.co.za/)

willow feather farm


, , ,

8 Indigenous Trees for Screening

, , ,

Trees for Screening

Many landscapes require screening between the edges of a property for privacy or the addition of height for softening of buildings. Mostly you would be looking for evergreen trees with attractive foliage and non-aggressive roots. When designing a tree screen I like to use a combination of tree heights and foliage texture. Here are some lovely indigenous screening trees to consider:

1. Olea europaea subsp. africana (Olive Tree)

Olea europaea subsp. africana is a neatly shaped, hardy, evergreen tree with a dense spreading crown (9 x 12 m) of glossy grey-green to dark-green foliage. Leaves are grey-green to dark-green above and greyish below. The rough, grey bark sometimes peels off in strips. Sprays of tiny, lightly scented white to greenish flowers (October to February) are followed (March to July) by small, spherical, thinly fleshy fruits (either sweet or sour) which ripen purple-black. The Latin name for olive is olea; europaea = from Europe, and africana = from Africa. Don't plant it too close to walls, patios or swimming pools, the root system can sometimes be aggressive. (http://pza.sanbi.org/olea-europaea-subsp-africana)

Olea africana (Image from SunTrees Nursery)

Olea africana (Image from SunTrees Nursery)

2. Buddleja saligna (False Olive)

Buddleja saligna is a medium sized tree usually 4 to 5 metres in Highveld areas. This fast growing tree is an excellent, quick screen plant. It grows up to 800mm per year. Use it as a pioneer tree for your forest garden. It also makes a very good clipped hedge. It is evergreen, frost hardy and drought resistant and the masses of flowers make a lovely spring and summer show. It will grow in most soils but added compost will improve performance. It may need cutting back after flowering to keep tidy. The false olive does not have an aggressive root system. The flowers attract insects (especially moths) and therefore insect feeding birds such as Robins and Apalises to the garden. (http://pza.sanbi.org/buddleja-saligna)

Buddleja saligna (Image from CJM Nursery)

Buddleja saligna (Image from CJM Nursery)

3. Ilex mitis (Cape Holly)

Ilex mitis is a hardy, small to medium sized, evergreen tree with almost white bark. It has a graceful rounded crown of glossy, dark green leaves that are purplish-red when they first flush.

Massed clusters of small, sweetly scented, white flowers are borne from October to February. (Male and female flowers on separate trees, therefore only female plants bear fruit). These are followed by tightly packed decorative red berries that attract flocks of fruit eating birds. It grows better in moist conditions near water but can withstand dry conditions. With its beautiful shape it makes a good avenue tree. Although this beautiful rounded tree can grow to huge proportions in forest conditions, it is normally a small to medium sized tree. The leaves are used as a soap substitute. Size 3 to 8m (Information from Random Harvest Website)

Ilex mitis (Cape Holly) Image from Just Trees Nursery

Ilex mitis (Cape Holly) Image from Just Trees Nursery

4. Vepris lanceolata (Ironwood)

Vepris lanceolata is a hardy, evergreen, very attractive tree with apple green foliage. It blooms with a myriad of small, white flowers from December to January, which give the tree a lacy look. The black berries ripen throughout the autumn and winter and are an important source of food for the birds. The tree is host to the Citrus Swallowtail Butterflies. A beautifully shaped tree and a very good garden subject that can be used as a screen or container plant for outdoors or indoors. The non-aggressive root system makes it ideal for smaller gardens. The timber is even-grained and white. It has many medicinal uses. Size 5 to 10m (Information from Random Harvest Website)

Vepris lanceolata (Ironwood) photographed in Random Harvest Nursery

Vepris lanceolata (Ironwood) photographed in Random Harvest Nursery

5. Rapanea melanophloes (Cape Beech)

Rapanea melanophloes is a hardy, small to medium sized, evergreen tree with dark leaves that have a purplish cast to them. It also has really attractive bark. The small greenish-white flowers from May to July attract insects and bees. These are followed by small purple fruits that are borne in profusion close to the stems which attract fruit eating birds. A good garden subject and a useful addition to screen planting with its unusual colour foliage. The wood is used for making furniture and violins and has many magical and medicinal uses. Size 4 to 10m (information from Random Harvest Website)

Rapanea melanophloes.jpg

6. Noltea africana

Noltea africana is a very hardy, evergreen, very fast growing, small to medium sized tree. The glossy leaves are darker above and paler underneath, and have purple petioles. The branchlets are also purplish-red. The flowers are pretty, small, white sprays borne in the axils of the leaves from August to September. The black seeds are encased in a three-lobed, brown woody capsule that splits to release them when ripe. A decorative tree that is ideal for the smaller garden but should be kept as a single stem. Grows well in sun and semi-shade. A good tree to plant for a quick screen. When twigs and leaves are rubbed in water it becomes soapy. Size 2 to 6m (Information from Random Harvest Website)

Noltea africana (Soapwood) plantbook.co.za

Noltea africana (Soapwood) plantbook.co.za

7. Loxostylis alata (Tarwood)

A small, well-shaped tree with glossy foliage tinged with red when young and masses of white flowers in early summer, and if the tree is a female it has showy pinkish red fruits. Tarwoods are evergreen, ornamental trees which will grow in a wide range of ecological habitats. This tree closely resembles the Brazilian pepper tree, Schinus terebinthifolius of the same family, which does not have the characteristic red sepals. This is a very attractive small tree or large shrub for gardens. It is also useful for screening and boundary plantings. It grows to 6 m or higher in favorable conditions, but can form a large, dense shrub. Other recommended trees in this family are the red currant (Rhus chirindensis), wild-plum (Harpephyllum caffrum) and the marula (Sclerocarya birrea). (http://pza.sanbi.org/loxostylis-alata)

Loxostylis alata (Tarwood) from SANBI Website

Loxostylis alata (Tarwood) from SANBI Website

8. Cryptocarya traansvaalensis (Mountain Wild Quince)

Cryptocarya transvaalensis is a hardy, evergreen large tree with beautiful glossy dark green foliage. The leaves are blue-green below. The inconspicuous flowers are borne in the axils of the leaves from December to February. These are followed by glossy red to purple berries that are decorative and attract fruit eating birds to the garden. This species is declining as the bark is used for medicinal purposes. It makes a beautiful container plant and if you have the space a magnificent specimen tree. It stays smaller when grown in full sun. Size up to 12m (Information from Random Harvest Website)

20181211_091015.jpg

There are many many other screening trees that can be used so don’t let this list limit you!


, ,

Discovering The Wilds, a Historical Park in Johannesburg

, ,
Kudu Sculpture with View of Telkom Tower from The Wilds

Kudu Sculpture with View of Telkom Tower from The Wilds

I had heard rumours about a beautiful outdoor space in Johannesburg called The Wilds but it was shrouded in mystery and even the name made me imagine an overgrown and slightly dangerous place to visit, naturally making me a bit apprehensive to go there. When I eventually did visit I was completely taken aback by the beauty and history of this Park. I was captivated by the winding stone paths, the incredible views, the amazing selection of indigenous plants and the artworks that brought such an element of fun and wonder.

Location

The Wilds is located on Houghton Drive, Houghton and is situated on the Parktown Ridge. It consists of two parts, East and West, and is connected by a bridge over Houghton Drive. The West is more park-like and popular amoung visitors, especially the Giraffe Lawn area while the East is recommended to walk in Groups.

Map of the Park at Main Entrance

Map of the Park at Main Entrance

History

The Park, like Zoo Lake and the Johannesburg Zoo, was a corporate gift to the citizens of Johannesburg. In 1924 the Johannesburg Consolidated Investment Company (JCI) donated the land, on condition that it remained in its natural state and open to the public. Once it was completed in 1938 it was opened to the public. In 1968 the JCI again donated to the park in the form of four greenhouses. It was declared a national monument in 1981.

Heritage+Site

In the 1980s and 1990s it was hit by crime and people stopped visiting. The park became forgotten and overgrown. In the early 2000s the park was fenced off and a resident named TJ de Klerk tried to revive it by taking people on guided walks on both sides of the park. See more about the rejuvenation of the Park further below, but let’s first look at its physical features:

Vegetation

The trees are incredible – massive Yellowwoods, Lavender Trees, Fever Trees, White Stinkwoods, Cabbage Trees, Olive Trees and a stunning assortment of Cycads and Aloes. The beds below the trees are filled with indigenous groundcovers and I saw plants on display that are seldom seen elsewhere (E.g Pycnostachys urticifolia). This collection of plants has developed over the years as supporters have donated plants and a large donation was made after the Empire Exhibition in 1936 when the Golden Jubilee (50th anniversary) of Johannesburg was celebrated.

Pathways

The winding pathways and staircases (over 8km) are made out of natural packed stone and these create a delightful maze to explore and discover. There is good signage that ensures you don’t get lost and also a map at the entrance to orientate yourself when first arriving. We naturally made our way up through the park, following the paths to the highest point of the park where the sundial is located and the views are panoramic.

Can you spot the Owls? There are 67

Can you spot the Owls? There are 67

Beautiful Stone Pathways

Beautiful Stone Pathways

Benches for resting and clear Signage

Benches for resting and clear Signage

Sundial

The sundial was created and installed by sundial maker Malcolm Barnfield and stonemason Dave Baguley in 2005 and is inscribed with the words “I only count the sunny hours”. The message around the base of the dial reads “Blessed too is he who learned to know the God of The Wilds” which was previously depicted on a plaque commemorating the words spoken by Jan Smuts. When Smuts died in 1950 The Wilds was dedicated to his memory. (Davie, L. A journey through Johannesburg’s Parks, Cemeteries and Zoo. 2014. JHB City Parks and Zoo)

Sculpture

One of the highlights of The Park must certainly be the striking steel sculptures  (mostly animals) made by artist James Delaney who has also been instrumental in transforming and rejuvenating the park (See Rejuvenation below). The first installation took place in 2017 as a means of drawing people’s attention to the park. As it was close to Mandela Day, he chose to design 67 owl sculptures that would hang high in the forest and these are a delight to find for young and old alike.  Delaney explains that the sculptures start as charcoal sketches which are then laser cut from steel and painted or powder coated. The pink and yellow giraffe, located on the large bottom lawn area is life size and visible from the main road running past the park. According to Delaney this was a deliberate intervention to draw people’s attention to this once neglected space. The sculpture installations in the park won an award from BASA (Business Arts South Africa) in 2018. (https://www.delaney.co.za/outdoor-sculpture/)

Giraffe Lawn in the late afternoon with visitors picnicking

Giraffe Lawn in the late afternoon with visitors picnicking

Bush Baby Forest

Bush Baby Forest

Views

The park offers views of Hillbrow, Berea and the inner city. This includes views of several Johannesburg landmarks, including Ponte City Apartments, The Hillbrow Tower, St. Johns School for Boys, Roedean School for Girls, and many mansions in the suburb of Houghton. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Wilds_Municipal_Nature_Reserve)

403.JPG

Rejuvenation

It has only been in the last few years that the Park has been fully revived and people feel safe enough to return. This has largely been brought about by artist James Delaney who has spent a considerable amount of time and money on generating funding and gaining support for the Park. He received an AfriSam-SAIA Award for his work in raising over R100 000 but this is just one of the many interventions he has championed. It is inspiring to read his story and how he became involved.

Here is an excerpt taken directly from his website where he details the history of his involvement and the progress made: (taken from https://www.delaney.co.za/installations/my-story-of-the-wilds/)

“Here are some highlights of the work that’s been achieved with my team, with volunteers and with the City Parks Wilds staff on the ground;

  • Restoration of 80 park benches, repainting them in bold colours on volunteer days, with donated paint and tools.

  • A mini library was donated for the entrance, from which people borrow or take books. It’s become really well used, especially by kids from the inner city.

  • Negotiation with Roedean School to take down their stone wall, which had become unstable, and replaced with a fence, and the stone donated to The Wilds.

  • Construction of the circular entrance area with seating, designed by Martine de la Harpe and built by JJ with the Roedean stone. This used to an eroded slope of dirt, a depressing welcome to the park. This was sponsored by Hollard, whose Villa Arcadia head office shares the same ridge as The Wilds, and they have done considerable indigenous planting to restore their landscape.

  • Sealing the ponds and the installation of a pump which draws water discarded by Gautrain (they pump millions of litres out of their tunnels into the underground river). This water now flows beautifully though the lower ponds, and back into the river. This system was developed and installed by YPO, and opened by the Mayor. (YPO also got the upper ponds and waterfalls working for a while, but we’re waiting for City Parks to install a new pump for that system.)

  • Mulching of flowerbeds. City Parks always used to take leaves to the dump, but I eventually convinced them to layer them on flowerbeds to protect the soil. They still won’t allow us to make compost.

  • Design and installation of 100 items of signage throughout the park, thanks again to Hollard – directional, rules, information and welcome signage. Because City Parks has dated and unfriendly signage design, I redesigned a whole signage template for them. Most of the new signs are mounted onto a recycled plastic product.

  • Huge weeding, every summer, which has broken the seed cycle of blackjacks and khakibos in most of the West Wilds (we have a long way to go in the East Wilds).

  • Restoration of the hillside where the sundial is, including replanting indigenous grasses and aloes and removing all the nasty rusted wire fencing.

  • Resurfacing of the carpark and internal road, and painting the pedestrian bridge (done by JRA, but I lobbied for it).

  • Repairs to broken and missing pieces of fence, especially on the East Wilds (which is an ongoing job).

  • Installation of fencing along Munro Drive, to complete the fencing of the entire perimeter of the park.

  • A friend of The Wilds replaced the decrepit security hut, with a new structure which was warmer and nicer for the guards.

  • Regular “Walk n Talk” sessions where visitors are led around the park in conversation with interesting people.

  • Several weekly exercise classes on the lawns, run by various people who love outdoor training.

  • Corporate events, weddings, small events and school tours have become a regular occurrence, providing an income stream to the city (unfortunately this doesn’t directly benefit The Wilds). They must be booked via City Parks, but when organisers approach me, I always ask them to add an element of giving back to the park, usually through volunteer work.

  • Moving large aloes from locations where they are in too much shade (they start rotting) into the sun.

  • Collecting cuttings for the nursery, which now has several thousand plants, particularly succulents. This has been an ongoing job benefiting from dozens of volunteer hands.

  • Restoration of the abandoned compost area with the Rosebank Scouts.

  • Large new flowerbeds around Giraffe Lawn, and repairing the little bridge, now adorned with crocheted flowers by local artist Curious Sleuth.

  • Other artists are making their mark too; there was a land art project, and Gordon Froud’s sculpture installation, made from orange beacons, stands on the East Wilds.

  • Planting indigenous trees. Volunteers have started labeling them too. We now also plant along the streets surrounding the park, to extend the forest canopy.

  • Clean-up of the climbing wall, which is now regularly used.

  • Clearing of invasive alien trees on the edges of both the East and West Wilds.

  • Lining several kilometres of pathways with stones, to prevent damage to the plants on the edges.

  • Restoration of 4 drinking fountains, broken for decades. Local mosaic artists are making beautiful detailing.

  • The Munro Centenary Gates, which I drew using aloes as a motif which now stand on the Munro Drive side. Look carefully for the owls and mouse…

As the sculptures became popular, I used them to open up sections of the park that people weren’t visiting – they became destinations within the park, allowing people to walk further and spend more time exploring. There are now 100 sculptures – monkeys, a pangolin, ostriches, the red kudu family, klipspringers, duiker and more.

The largest is a 5 metre high pink and yellow giraffe, on what is now known as Giraffe Lawn. This was an important landmark piece as it is visible from the road, drawing the attention of passers-by. I crowdfunded to pay for the materials, which were considerable – it’s so heavy it had to be installed using a crane, and we had to bring a concrete mixer down narrow stone paths to lay the large block of concrete below ground to support it.” Read more on his website

How can you make a difference

Every person can make a difference in this life. We are all uniquely situated with unique talents and abilities. If we look back over the history of this park we see demonstrations of generosity where people have given land, time, money, plants, energy and love. The Wilds is a Park layered with history, memory and natural beauty. Fortunately for the citizens of Johannesburg James Delaney got a dog and needed a place to walk him and through his efforts over these recent years we can again experience this remarkable space. Where can you make a contribution to a park, an organisation or initiative to make a difference in your community?

 

Blog Archive

,

What makes George Hay Park a Successful Community Park?

,
024.JPG

As a landscape architect I am always analyzing outdoor spaces and trying to pinpoint what makes them attractive, enjoyable and successful. What changes a ‘space’ into a ‘place’? Why are people drawn to a place and what makes them come back again? What attributes does a public space need to become an integral part of a community and how does one achieve this?

george hay park map

George Hay Park is located in the heart of Parkview, Johannesburg and at first sight it can seem to be an ordinary rectangular open area of lawn with some trees that is not very different to many other parks in Johannesburg. However, on closer inspection you will find that this Park is a place loved by the community and where many residents spend regular time with friends, walk their dogs, share special celebrations and enjoy time together with their children on the playground.

Here are several reasons that contribute to the success of George Hay Park:

  1. Location

    Situated in the centre of a residential suburb with grid-like layout the park is within easy walking distance and far enough from busy roads to be secluded but accessible. There is also a road all around the Park which makes for increased visibility (frequented by private security companies patrolling the neighbourhood) adding to a feeling of safety. Cars can park along the street next to where they will be spending time in the Park. Parkview itself has a strong sense of place and rich history which adds to the overall atmosphere of the park.


    2. Terrain and Layout

    The physical characteristics of the site can be described as rectangular and flat with many large trees providing shade. It is comprised of a large lawn area, dotted with large trees, includes areas with children’s play equipment and has a strip of indigenous planting along three of the edges.

022.JPG

3. Edges

The Park is surrounded by a black metal fence on three sides and this contributes to the feeling of containment and protection that one feels when inside the Park. This is especially important for keeping small children safe as it prevents them from running into the street. The northern most boundary of the park is where the Columbas Church is located and this edge has a gum pole fence that is a more permeable edge and creates a sense of connection between the church and the Park. (http://stcolumbas.org.za/ )

St Columbas

4. Facilities

As mentioned the park contains play equipment for children of varying ages. The play equipment for smaller children has baby swings, a small slide, a see-saw and monkey bars while the play equipment for older kids has larger swings, a large slide and a roundabout. There is a small basketball court as well as outdoor gym equipment. A beautiful rustic tree house has been built around a large existing tree creating a wonderful space for children to have imaginative play. There are many benches that one can sit on and water is provided in bowls for visiting dogs.

Organic Tree House Built around Existing Tree

Organic Tree House Built around Existing Tree

George Hay Park

5. Use

The Park is used for a variety of small, personal functions (birthday parties, baby showers) and also provides a space for large scale community gatherings. Several well-supported events take place in the park throughout the year, some of which occur annually, including: Halloween Event, Christmas Market and Potjiekos Competition. These events have the added benefit of strenghtening realtionships within the community and celebrating the neighbourhood. It creates memories that become associations which then contributes to the sense of attachment and belonging that a person has to a place.

2320.jpg
Halloween Community Event in George Hay Park (photo taken 31 October 2019)

Halloween Community Event in George Hay Park (photo taken 31 October 2019)

6. Community Ownership

This must be one of the most important characteristics that set this park apart. The Parkview Residents Association) PRA is actively involved in the maintenance and running of George Hay Park and without their involvement it is clear that the park would not be what it is today.

“Beginning in 2007, and continuing ever since, many different projects have been undertaken including the renovation and staffing of the toilet block, the repainting of the perimeter fence, the repair of the drinking fountain, the renovation and securing of the storeroom, the installation of benches and tables, annual planting of indigenous trees, often planned around Arbor Week in September and the repair and installation of new playground equipment. In 2008 the need for a permanent but casual parkkeeper was recognised as a way to keep the park clean and safe on a daily basis. Funds were raised by asking those residents who live on the perimeter of the park (and any others willing to do so) to commit to a monthly contribution. Daily duties include making sure the bins are cleared (and any recyclables removed and the dog poo removed. Other duties include watering the trees and keeping their bases free of grass, feeding the trees, weeding the pavements and pruning bushes and trees where necessary, watering the grass in early summer and raking and piling leaves in winter.” Reference: (http://www.parkview.org.za/content/george-hay-park)

It is evident that a successful park needs many components in order to provide a place for its users to find enjoyment, to feel safe and to take ownership of a place so that they keep returning. When many people use a park it feels safer as there are always other users and it’s presence becomes well embedded in their minds and hearts.

Vegetable Garden Initiative

Vegetable Garden Initiative

Indigenous planting along edges - pictured here is Anisodontea scabrosa and Aloe spp.

Indigenous planting along edges - pictured here is Anisodontea scabrosa and Aloe spp.

Other blog posts about Parks in Johannesburg: