The story of St Giles, in technicolor
Shaun Oakley painted the walls at Saint Giles with graffiti, to tell the story of what the organisation does.
GRAFFITI artist, Shaun Oakley is spreading the message of Saint Giles on the walls of the organisation at its premises in Prince Street, Durban.
Vaneshiri Pillay of Saint Giles said she read an article about Shaun in the local Get It magazine and contacted him to ask if he could do something to brighten up the outside walls of the organisation.
“We felt it was the perfect opportunity to tell people what we are all about, as a lot of people don't even know what Saint Giles does. The artwork is also on the main route, so people will notice it,” she said.
Shaun does a fair amount of pro bono work and after receiving the call and appeal, he offered to do the job for free. He was assisted by Giffy Duminy, whose graffiti name is Baker.
“Saint Giles provided the paint and I put together art work which tells the story of who Saint Giles are, and what they do. The work really gets people's attention and looks very different from the dull city look. Visually I represent all aspects of what Saint Giles does, and the work is colourful, which is nice for the children at the school opposite the organisation, as they can relate to it and appreciate it,” said Shaun.
He said a lot of older people were against graffiti and usually complained the most about it, but he had had a lot of positive feedback that the work brings a lot of life and vibrancy to the area.
“We are very appreciative that Shaun chose us. There is more to come with the renovations to our building, and we will add more painting which people driving along the other route will see. We hope we can get our message across through this art,” said Vaneshiri.
