As the name suggests, the two-month exhibition programme is themed around the ever closing generation gap between 21st century people. Life is about living longer, acting only as old as one feels and enjoying the simple things. The exhibition will be exploring the human capacity for play and then looking at how design addresses these societal shifts over the generations.
In aid of Rock Girl and the Safe Spaces campaign, the exhibition will open with local artist, Paul du Toit, together with Grade 6 learners from the Red River Primary School in Manenberg, splashing creative and interactive images together using the brand's paint.
Paul du Toit enjoys both international and local status with his unique form of art which steers away from the commercial and takes it roots in his personal experiences. Paul has won numerous global awards for his art and was invited to work with Nelson Mandela and the international musicians on the 46664 concert.
Exhibiting designers will include Francois van Reenen, painter and sculptor who draws his inspiration from pop culture, comics and cartoons. He will be displaying the pod of his brand and installing an art gallery environment.
The Fringe Arts, the second exhibitor, represents and sells art in a collaborative way and has organised a series of workshops to reawaken the child within. Facilitated by well-known creatives such Lauren Fowler, Vincent Urbain and Keri Muller, the workshops will run on selected weekdays between 12-1pm and 3-4pm to allow participants to create their own arts and crafts, which will then form part of the exhibition. In addition to these, there will also be a range of workshops to be enjoyed with the kids.
I-Jusi, is an experimental graphics magazine concept born in 1994. The collection will display a series of graphic design artworks from the youth of South Africa's new democracy until its maturity today. The design curator, Jackie Lang, will present the collection.
Lastly, Atang, the street artist behind the brand Zabalazaa ("to hustle") will be creating a room set for his installation and will also be customising patron's shoes on a commission basis. A graphic illustrator and painter, who specialises in personalising designer labels, he has been drawing on walls, bicycles, furniture and shoes since he was a boy. Famous brands have recognised his youthful talent, including Adidas, where he has been know known to customise trainers.
"Along with talented artists and teachers, this exhibition is a vital injection of youth into the old soul and culture into the youthful one. The Freeworld Design Centre is excited to see the fusion between the two and proud to be associated with such talented artists," says Lauren Shantall, Plascon's group communications manager.
The On Tap design competition will be launched on opening night. Entrants will stand the chance of winning a trip to Europe for the most innovative tap design. Entrants will also have the opportunity of meeting Kludi designer Michael Stein who is famous for creating Esprit, Joop and Swarovski designer baths.
For more information, go to www.freeworlddesigncentre.co.za.
