TREE TOPS pupils got to be part of the artistic fun in a workshop that helped Umcebo Design complete the beadwork for their “Jungle Fever Avenue of Recycled Chandeliers” which was officially selected as a project for the World Design Capital Cape town 2014.
Robin Opperman, creative director of Umcebo Design said the idea behind the WDC project was bridging divides and getting people involved in art and design that would not usually be part of design. “It's community organisations and schoolchildren who aren't usually associated with WDC that can be part of it in this way. If a little grade three kid can assist with some elements of design, anyone can. The workshop is great for us because we want to bring this project to everyone in the community.”
With Tree Tops, Opperman said he'd found a perfect fit because of the school's eco-friendly ethos, which is in line with their recyclable art and design. “It was a pleasure to work with the kids and this has cemented our relationship for future projects, they even have a recycle rap and will be able to connect this project to their curriculum back in the classroom,” he added.
Young Maya Moggee a grade 3 pupil at Tree Tops was thrilled to be part of the art and fun. “I'm happy to make something that is going to be so beautiful when its finished.” Thea Naidoo said she enjoyed beading and making loom bands so the workshop was “really fun.” While Caitlin Carr said the beading was quite easy and they just had to be careful with the wires while threading the beads.
Tree Tops art teacher, Sonja Cavey said after doing a workshop with Umcebo Design at the beginning of the year, the kids were very excited to be part of the project. “We are an eco school and have supplied a lot of the ice cream containers used to make the recycled flowers for the chandeliers so it was really great that they are part of the process, which at the end they will be able to see on display in the gallery.”
