Page 19 - Waterfall City Dec 2024_Jan 2025

The Novartis steps

A The staircases themselves are more
vibrant new chapter in
than functional structures. They are
South Africa’s artistic
narratives embraced in colour and
heritage recently unfolded
in the heart of Waterfall City,
characteristic of Ndebele art, are
where modern architecture meets form. The intricate geometric patterns,
the expansive African sky. Amidst executed with such precision that
the hustle of urban life, Mall of Africa they almost defy belief, especially
became the canvas for a remarkable knowing they were painted freehand
fusion of tradition and innovation, with brushes made from chicken
celebrating one of the nation’s most feathers. These designs are not merely
esteemed artists, Dr Esther Mahlangu. decorative. They are a language, a
visual expression of stories passed
In September, as the country down through generations.
celebrated our collective heritage,
Attacq, a strategic development We invite you to visit and experience
partner of Waterfall City, orchestrated this vibrant marriage of art and
an event that resonated deeply Dr Esther Mahlangu innovation for yourself. Walk the
with the essence of our South steps adorned with intricate Ndebele
African identity. The unveiling of patterns, harmoniously interwoven
two stunning art installations - bold, presence infused the event with a with the unique visual language and
intricate Ndebele designs adorning sense of history and continuity. As motifs of Waterfall City. As you walk
grand staircases - brought a burst of the Mpilisweni Math, Science and ICT past the bottom of the stairs at Mall
colour and culture to the city’s sleek School Choir filled the air with their of Africa’s entrance 12, the depiction
landscape. These masterpieces, crafted harmonious rendition of our anthem of the African continent moves,
by Skhumba La! Masango and artists Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika, emotions ran transforms and falls exactly into
from the Mmabana Foundation, now high, and many attendees were visibly place as if in motion, following you in
grace the steps leading into Mall moved by the sense of unity felt in the animation as you stroll.
of Africa at entrance 12 as well as moment.
the steps of the Novartis building, Central to bringing this vision to life
symbolising a bridge between our past Jackie van Niekerk, CEO of Attacq, was Skhumba La! Masango, under
and the future. encapsulated the significance of the Dr Mahlangu’s mentorship. Masango
occasion: “This art installation is more is a dedicated artist who has become
The atmosphere at Mall of Africa’s than a celebration of our roots. It is a a custodian of Ndebele art. His
Crystal Court during the unveiling was tribute to our spirit of collaboration, commitment was profound, fasting
profoundly moving. Dr Mahlangu’s innovation and culture.” for 10 days during the creation of the

Waterfall City Issue 12 2024/Issue 1 2025 17