Durban North residents witnessed art and nature combine in a beautiful display following a recent environmental fundraiser. On Saturday, 18 January, Enviro Fixers Durban North, artist Jane Wolff and photographer Brett van Dort teamed up to install artwork and raise funds that would go towards the Envirofixers Conservancy.
Along with photographer van Dort, Wolff shared that this project – “Witness” – was personal. Wolff added, “The installation is a representation of our humanity reflected back to us through nature, our choices and the impact we leave on the earth. Over time as the pieces evolved, we grew with them, and after a few months working together, “Witness” was born.
Wolff said it was beautiful to see people interact with the structures, listen to their experience of them, and allow the installation to have its impact. Additionally, many people spoke to them about the peace and wonder they experienced when standing within them.
The artworks are each over 3.5m tall, to emphasise nature’s presence over us. It was beautiful to see people interact with the structures, listen to their experience of them, and allow the installation to have its impact. Many people spoke to us about the peace and wonder they experienced when standing within them.
Wolff added that the artwork also had a statement plaque that went alongside it – which read, “Witness – Nature, ever silent remains a steadfast witness to our presence, while we, in turn watch in quiet communion, bound in an unbroken circle, eternally intertwined with its existence.”
Enviro Fixers Durban North’s founder, Helen Koch, shared that they raised over R13,000 towards its conservancy.
She said that they invited locals to come to experience the artworks, walk through Bridgevale Park and donate towards the Envirofixers Conservancy.
“We enjoyed hosting the art installation this weekend. Bridgevale Park is a community space and this installation encompasses all that we stand for. Thank you to all involved,” Koch said.
