La Lucia artist gives back

GENTLY pinning a colourful butterfly on to her artwork, La Lucia resident and artist, Marian Immerman, explains the idea behind her creation. She recently revealed her artwork as well as several goodies which had been donated by Johnson & Johnson to the Durban Child and Youth Care Centre.

More than a year ago, Immerman participated in a ‘Bring Back Our Girls’ march organised by the Umbilo SAPS where she met youngsters from the home.

When she was invited by Robin Opperman of Umcebo Design to participate in a group exhibition at the KZNSA Art Gallery she immediately decided to be proactive and to create an art piece titled ‘No More Tears’ through which she would convey a message of hope to children who are victims of abuse.

Immerman has dabbled in many creative projects but is particularly fond of using recyclable objects to create art. In this instance she incorporated vintage handkerchiefs, discarded accessories as well as fabric scraps to make up the ensemble .

“The handkerchiefs on the washing line relate to children’s past sorrows which have been washed and cleansed.The butterflies ascending relate to new found freedom and positive upward journeys; journeys that are coloured with smiles, sweet music and no more tears,” she explained.

Immerman approached Johnson and Johnson and asked them to support her project by donating some of their products to the children in the home.

Mandy Goble, director of the children’s home said she was thrilled with the donation and the artwork.

“Marian has been so supportive and her artwork is important as it raises awareness about child abuse. Many people forget what is underneath a child’s smile. Those scars are there. So the idea behind this was just wonderful.

“We receive a monthly subsidy from the government but there was no increase in the past year and that means we don’t have a lot of money to spend. So this donation is welcomed and we are so thankful for the support,” Goble said.