Local artist Giffy Duminy (standing, centre) with some of the First Year Architecture students in front of the newest addition to their studio – Goodenough Greg, the Archi monkey.
First-year Architecture students were recently treated to a presentation on mural art, followed by a live demonstration by renowned KZN street artist Mr Gifford “Giffy” Duminy.
He spoke to students about how his career began, the type of work he does and his client-base, as well as how his intricate art is created. Duminy took students through the journey of creating expressive street art from conception through preparation, application and finally completion
‘There are endless possibilities with Art. You can inspire people through visual public art. With dedication, anybody can make Art,’ said Duminy.
For the live demonstration, he created “Goodenough Greg the Archi monkey” on one of the studio walls which the students had prepared earlier with a purple base coat sponsored by Prominent Paints. Greg sported a pencil behind his ear, keeping in line with the Architectural theme, which students found both hilarious and appropriate. They were also amazed at the level of skill that was put into the piece.
Student Ms Samukelisiwe Shezi said, ‘We were told that he was going to be drawing a mischievous playful animal. So we watched him and it was amazing seeing how Giffy was able to design the monkey. Some of us guessed right! He made it look so easy. He is a talented artist and I’m glad that first-year Architecture students were given this opportunity to see Giffy’s work first hand, and to also interact with him.’
According to lecturer Ms Lindsay Bush, the presentation and demo by Duminy feeds into one of the design projects that the students have been tasked with for the year. This involves designing and applying a fresh new mural to the entrance of the Architecture discipline in Denis Shepstone building on the Howard College campus.
Photographs: Melissa Mungroo, Ntandoyenkosi Mchunu