Mohlakeng artist wins Art for Glass Graffiti Competition

The Glass Recycling Company (TGRC) has announced the winner of their inaugural Art for Glass Graffiti Competition, the exceptionally talented Dbongz Mahlathi of Mohlakeng.

Pre-empting this competition was the realisation that many individuals are keen to recycle, but often are not sure where to do so. For this reason, TGRC hosted the competition to draw Jozi residents’ attention to the numerous glass banks in the city.

The competition, which concluded in July this year, called on graffiti artists to submit their art in order to stand a chance to be able to have their art displayed on glass recycling banks in Johannesburg. The top three finalists had to paint various glass banks in Johannesburg, with their entries then going through a gruelling judging process.

Second place was awarded to Durban resident, the Damn Vandal and third place to admired artist, Mars.

Dbongz as he is known, is a self-taught graffiti/ street artist from Mohlakeng, located to the west of Johannesburg. He started participating in graffiti and street art in 2008, when he first came to the city to attend university. He fell in love with the vibrance it provoked in mundane spaces. He is well-known for his large-scale portraits.

Shabeer Jhetam, CEO of The Glass Recycling Company, commented on the process of selecting a winner.

“It was not an easy task with so many talented graffiti artists entering the competition and a phenomenal line-up of finalists. The artworks showcased by the finalists on our glass banks is incredible. To help us select the final winner, various criteria and factors were considered, including use of colour, environmental consideration, overall likeability, creativity and technique.

“We are very happy with the decision we made and feel that Dbongz is a young artist who really understood the message that we need to get across. He showcased his talent and creativeness on the glass banks while making the purpose of a glass bank clear. The messaging and creativity portrayed on the glass banks will most definitely draw peoples’ attention and ensure more awareness of glass recycling. However, we really felt we had no ‘losers’ here at all! These top three finalists did amazing work, all win cash prizes and their art will inspire members of the community to recycle their glass bottles and jars.”

Not only is their art now proudly showcased on glass banks in Joburg, but they have received cash prizes worth R60 000. Dbongz will be receiving the first prize of R30 000, Damn Vandal, the second prize of R20 000 and Mars will be awarded R10 000.

TGRC believes in the infinite potential of glass to make a real and positive contribution to society, and is committed to proving that glass recycling is worth the effort! Find a glass bank artwork – glass banks that have been painted, including those on Bompas Road, Dunkeld; at the Corner Café, Craighall; at Macy’s Spar in Alberton; at the Engen Garage on Malibongwe Drive; at the Caltex petrol station on Cedar Road in Fourways, and at Moyo at Zoo Lake.

For tips and advice, ‘like’ TGRC on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/TheGlassRecyclingCo) or visit their website at https://www.tgrc.co.za to find a glass bank near you!