Sandton Central Illumination Project 2009-2010

"The switch-on of the Why Men is one of the most anticipated events in the district. The life-size figures, designed and made by Usha, are sculpted as metal armatures or frames which are then wrapped with LED rope light. We work closely with AAW Art Project Management, the specialist company who manages our Arts Programme, as well as Usha to change the designs annually and ensure that the Why Men are topical and always a new experience. Some of our classics though are brought back every year, including the Passionata figures - two kissing sculptures – as well as the all-time favourite and cheeky Why Man taking a leak on the sidewalk. This year the major theme is undoubtedly soccer, so most of the designs have something to do with our nation's passion for this beautiful game. You've got to see the injured Why Men placed outside Netcare to realise how far we can take the subject and make it fun," says Cara Reilly, marketing manager of the SCMD.

Renowned local mixed-media artist, Usha Seejarim, has been the creative force behind the Why Men, and has designed the figures since inception in 2007. "This year, we wanted to align with the 2010 FIFA World Cup and so we became very soccer inspired. There are figures blowing vuvuzelas, a team of 12 standing with hands-on-hearts 'singing' the national anthem and quite a few other installations that bring the game to life on Sandton Central's streets," explains Seejarim.

Positioned all the way along Maude Street from Sandton City in the West (on the corner of 5th Street) to the corner of Rivonia Road near Village Walk, the Why Men truly come to life as the sun sets. Even without lights, the district's sidewalks have become quite popular for a leisurely stroll. "Each year, we see more and more families and couples making a special trip down Maude Street in the evening to see the arts project. The SCMD arranges for Public Safety Ambassadors to be stationed in the area to ensure that your stroll is a safe one," Reilly assures.

The 2009/2010 Why Men will grace Sandton Central with their presence beyond the festive season, and will be up until the end of July 2010 as part of the district's way of showing support for the upcoming 2010 soccer spirit that's being harnessed around the country. A group walk has also been arranged on Friday, 11 December at 19.00. "Everyone is invited to slip on their most comfortable shoes and meet us at the Sandton Convention Centre's entrance for a literal light-hearted walk! We have also arranged for surprise entertainment on the night, and who knows, there might be a couple of giants accompanying you on the stroll," Reilly concludes.

Home The Work We Do Art and Soul Illumination Project Sandton Central Illumination Project 2009-2010

Welcome to Sandton Central

The vibrant, high energy commercial centre of South Africa and a hub around which business people, residents, shoppers, and tourists live, work, play, shop and meet.

English Arabic Chinese (Simplified) French German Japanese Persian Portuguese Russian Spanish
AGM2
mobiguide
Follow us
facebooktwitteryoutube
Newsletter


Receive HTML?

Emergency Contacts
AMBULANCE & FIRE: 10177

FLYING SQUAD: 10111

SAPS SANDTON: 011 722 4200

METRO POLICE: 011 375 5911

JOBURG CONNECT: 011 375 5555

SANDTON CENTRAL
CONTROL ROOM: 011 884 3619

SANDTON CENTRAL
MANAGEMENT OFFICE: 011 784 8400