While Jozi residents anxiously await the event, which will see participants run a 5km race and be doused in different colours at every kilometre, Birch is creating a giant, colourful macaw parrot that sits at the entrance of the popular Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein.
Birch said the local creative showcase approached her about transforming a part of Braamfontein into a colourful public art piece. “My answer was an impulsive, yes – if I could have the assistance of Christiaan Beyers to help produce and execute the vision,” said Birch.
She went on to explain that the range of parrots are made using wheat paste. “They have a fabric trail of flags and tassels to guide your eye in the right direction. The piece ends up with a huge parrot that sets many smaller ones free from its wing. The colour powder trails also give you a hint of what the project is for [ultimately, The Color Run],” she said.
Charl Nel, head of communications at Capitec Bank said “Capitec Bank, like The Color Run, believes in health, happiness, individuality, freedom of expression, living life in technicolour, having fun and being you.”
As to why she chose the parrot, Birch said, “It is my alter ego, a free-flying bird. And it is colourful and loud! I would like a giant, bright, free bird to fly in the concrete jungle of Jozi, representing freedom and a bold self. The colourful wings of the macaw should inspire people to break free and express themselves.”
The Color Run will take place on 20 September at 9am from Roosevelt High School, Emmarentia Dam.
Tickets range from R245 and R220 for groups of four or more persons.
Details: www.thecolorrun.co.za
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