As South Africa celebrates 30 years of democracy, the importance of voter education has never been more vital. Leading up to the National Elections in 2024, Baz-Art, in collaboration with Futurelect and the Oppenheimer Memorial Trust (OMT), launched an innovative campaign using public art to engage communities and promote voter participation. This unique initiative combines art, community, and education to strengthen democracy in South Africa.
Our efforts are built on three pillars: urban art, community, and education. By transforming public spaces into vibrant canvases, we aim to inspire and educate communities. The recent voter education campaign is a shining example of these principles in action.
**ABOUT OUR COLLABORATORS**
The Oppenheimer Memorial Trust is a non-profit organization committed to uplifting individuals and communities through accessible education and social justice initiatives. Their dedication to social change and equitable futures aligns perfectly with the goals of this voter education campaign. Futurelect plays a key role in distributing educational materials and increasing engagement around voter education, focusing on empowering individuals to participate actively in the democratic process.
Celebrated South African artist Ras Silas Motse, known for his distinctive African geometric patterns, uses his art as a catalyst for change. His contributions to this campaign not only beautify public spaces but also serve as powerful tools for social change, igniting civic engagement and participation.
The campaign kicked off at the Ithemba Walkway in Gugulethu, where Ras Silas Motse brought his design to life. This space serves as a focal point for community engagement, encouraging residents to reflect on the importance of their vote.
In Mitchell’s Plain, a wall alongside the bustling AZ-Berman Drive was revitalized with Ras Silas Motse’s artwork. The mural stands as a beacon, reminding the community of their power and responsibility in the democratic process.
Near Ndebeni Road in Langa, the active space provided an ideal canvas for an impactful message encouraging civic engagement. The mural serves as a visual reminder of the importance of voter participation.
Following the multi-mural project, we collaborated with Futurelect to host a vibrant Voting Campaign Workshop in Gugulethu. The event brought together community leaders, activists, and representatives to inspire conversations about voting and civic participation. Participants were introduced to the Futurelect app, a tool designed to promote voter awareness and engagement. The workshop consolidated months of discussions and provided attendees with resources to educate their communities.
By infusing civic education into communities through art, the campaign aimed to increase voter turnout in the May 2024 Elections. The murals serve as both educational tools and calls to action, reminding citizens of the importance of their vote.
Beyond the election, the campaign seeks to foster a culture that values and engages communities in making informed decisions about who governs their spaces.
This collaboration between Baz-Art, Futurelect, and OMT highlights the transformative power of public art in driving social change.
Join us in celebrating democracy and promoting voter education. Visit the murals, and share the message of the power of your vote. Together, we can continue to create a more informed and engaged electorate for a brighter future.