Work will soon resume on three
controversial Durban elephant sculptures by Andries Botha that became the
subject of a political wrangle in 2010. The sculptures are meant to symbolise "the
forgotten conversation between man and nature" and were commissioned at a
cost of R1.5-million as part of the Warwick Junction redevelopment plan.
Artists far and wide, both in South Africa
and abroad, have welcomed the fact that Andries Botha and the eThekwini
Municipality have now reached an out-of-court settlement after work on the
project was halted in 2010.
Over the past two years, it has been a
cause of much concern to many art lovers and supporting members of the public to
drive past the unfinished sculptors on the main freeway into town approaching
the Warwick Triangle area. Originally surrounded by shade cloth, the sculptures
became prey to vandals and neglect.
As part of the agreement with the Municipality,
Botha will complete the sculpture of a small herd of elephants on the original
site.
Andries Botha released the following
statement on Facebook:
May I take this opportunity to address the
most important aspect of the success that we have gained in the so-called
"Elephant Saga" in Durban. In hindsight
it is completely evident to me that the victory in securing the rebuilding of
the elephants is an example of a multi-layered advocacy that does not include
one person, but many. I have personally been encouraged and taken heart from
the many supporters that have spoken passionately and articulately about the
tragedy of the Durban Elephants. You are all too many to name, those of you who
have loyally supported the social networks and spoken your strong and
articulate views about the on-going saga between myself and the eThekwini
municipality.
I would like to
unreservedly thank you for your support in securing this important legal
decision on behalf of the freedom of speech, the right for the public to have
access to creativity and last, but not least, the moral authority of a work of
art as a piece of intellectual property that is so adequately protected by our
constitution. You have all played a most significant and important part in this
significant victory. It is also now true that the elephants have now truly
become part of the public property and ownership.
I would also
like to thank by name my legal team who entered this legal discourse in order
to defend not only the constitution but the principles at hand. They are
Gilbert Marcus, Max du Plessis, Alan Boulle, Toby Orford and last but not least
J P Purshotum. If I mention individuals by name I suspect I shall be held
responsible for omission. There have been many and I am, of course, grateful
for their loyal support.
We are currently
in discussion to begin the rebuilding phase. We shall keep you informed as the
matter progresses.
Once again, may
I assure you that your support was inspiring and comforting and this victory
would not have been possible without you. Sincerely and respectfully, Andries
Botha”
More information at http://andriesbotha.net/
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