Art gives a shout-out to literacy
SHOUT has joined forces with wellknown visual artist John Adams to further its mission to develop libraries in the poorest communities of South Africa.
Shout initiated this project to raise much-needed funds to build libraries in primary schools across the country.
Through this unique collaboration, three inspiring sculptures of Nelson Mandela were created by Adams, using the most common pen used in most schools – the yellow BIC pen with blue cap.
The pen is relatable to every child and speaks to the values of literacy, numeracy and education.
“The idea of creating these unique sculptures is to raise awareness of how important education can be in making a difference in the fight against crime and violence.
“High levels of illiteracy are sadly a reality in many communities in South Africa,” said Gavin Koppel, chairperson of Shout.
The project of creating the three sculptures took five months, about 60000 to 70000 BIC® Pens and sixand-a-half litres of superglue.
The first sculpture is a statue of Mandela that depicts possibly his most popular stance – it’s an upright silhouette of Mandela with one hand in the air, saluting the nation.
The second sculpture is a portrait of Mandela’s face, which has become iconic all over the world, and the third sculpture is a pen box, with words inscribed on the front: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Each BIC sculpture depicts Mandela’s legacy and ideological mission of installing the importance of education in the South African nation.
Shout’s focus is simple: increase literacy and empower children with the tools they need to learn and succeed.
By reaching young children and encouraging them to work diligently at getting educated, they will be better equipped to live a successful and purposeful life.
The Madiba pen sculptures will be used to create awareness and raise funds to continue building libraries across primary schools in the poorest of the poor communities.
Shout has already got the ball rolling and has raised R7million which has been used to build 10 libraries.
“Last year marked a major milestone in the incredible story of Nelson Mandela – his centenary year.
“It’s our mission to continue Mandela’s mission in 2019 and beyond to ensure that his legacy continues through all of us,” said Koppel.
● For more information about the organisation, visit http://www.shoutsa. com/ Follow Shout on social Media @ SHOUTSA |
Each BIC sculpture depicts Mandela’s legacy and ideological mission of installing the importance of education in the South African nation