Forming part of the Sandton Central Management District's (SCMD) BenchMark Commission, developed in collaboration with AAW Art Project Management, the Baobab Bench is the third customised seating structure welcomed in Sandton Central. "The project is sponsored by various corporates throughout the district and forms part of our overall Art Programme. The Nelson Mandela Square Bench is one of our most unique ventures yet, and it is the first time in the SCMD's history that students were commissioned to design and manufacture a piece for the BenchMark Commission. We're very proud to welcome it to Sandton Central," says Paul van Rooyen, city improvement district manager for the SCMD.

Late last year, the University of Pretoria's 3rd year Fine Art students approached AAW for assistance in realising their work beyond a scale-model and suggested that the students be commissioned for the Nelson Mandela Square bench. The up and coming artists were divided into groups and invited to come up with a fresh and unique design.

The winning group found inspiration from the majestic Baobab tree, a prominent feature of the bench. The seating structure is a combination of bronze and sandstone and fits in perfectly with Nelson Mandela Square's surroundings.

"Nicole and Anne-Marie have exceeded all our expectations and the bench is comparable to the works of well established and renowned artists. We're very proud to welcome our newest landmark to the Square, and we're sure it will be well used by weary individuals after a long day of shopping," concludes Sharon Swain, centre manager for the Nelson Mandela Square.

For more information on the SCMD's Crime Prevention Initiatives and what else Sandon Central has to offer visit www.sandtoncentral.co.za.