Giraffe in African Street explained

When Peter Roediger, an optometrist, installed a wired giraffe statue outside his property, he had no idea of the hype it would create in his neighbourhood.

He said people phoned him to inquire about the art piece, while some went as far as copying his idea. “People have been stopping to take pictures and some have asked local artists to create the same piece for them,” said Roediger.

As to how the idea came about, Roediger said his wife, who loves African themes, was mostly behind it.

“We spoke to the artist who runs his business on our street corner and asked him to design something for us and he created this amazing statue,” he said.

The orange-coloured piece has glasses on and is attached to the fence wall, overlooking the street. The giraffe was erected in December last year. Roediger said the giraffe was perfect due to the height of their wall.

The artist behind the creation, Prince Rugaro, said that he makes his living through art, and this artwork was one of many he had created throughout the years.

“Sometimes people come to me to make art for their homes, and sometimes they buy the art I display on the street,” he said.

The Zimbabwean-born artist said he was always optimistic. “When you have hope you will always succeed in life,” he added.

Roediger said the work of Rugaro is impressive. “The giraffe brings a happy feeling, it’s unbelievable. Prince is brilliant: the giraffe boosted my business, and his work is wonderful.”

He added that his business logo has now been inspired by the giraffe.