A place of hope and vision
FOUR years ago, an abandoned and dilapidated house in Umbilo was a hideout for vagrants and used for other illegal activities but it has now transformed into an urban garden, green rehabilitation art gallery and a place of hope for emerging farmers and art enthusiasts.
It took a group of young people led by Xolani Hlongwa, who founded The Green Camp Gallery Project in Umbilo, to stimulate emerging farmers and artists.
The 41-year-old from Kwanyuswa, near Hillcrest, adopted the property which was abandoned for more than 20 years. The Green Camp is currently assisting more than 80 artists and small-scale organic farmers across Durban who sell their produce and artwork at least once a month.
Hlongwa described his project as a hub of urban farming and green rehabilitated art. They use materials left over from the houses and donated material to create beautiful pieces such as a plant growing in a shoe.
He said he had this vision after he noticed how artists and farmers were struggling to access the market from his community in Kwanyuswa.
He then decided to adopt one of the City’s abandoned buildings to bring them closer to the market.
Every last Sunday of the month they host a Sunday Market where organic farmers from different communities sell their produce.
At the market, farmers can sell only organic produce, including raw honey, raw milk and organic eggs. “They also use the platform to interact and share their skills.
“We have also helped many artists, painters, artisans and drawers to showcase their artwork to people through Sunday markets and exhibitions.
Hlongwa said many talented people were deprived of the opportunity to showcase their work in appropriate art galleries.
“This place is a platform for urban farmers and those who come from disadvantaged communities.”
They also provide students from tertiary institutions with skills in art and encourage them to get involve in farming.
“We also accommodate artists from outside the city to bring them closer.
“Most of them are good artists but due to the lack of motivation and guidance they give up sometimes.
“They stay inside the camp, this allows them to be more creative and keep this place attractive,” said Hlongwa.
“We want people to think about recycling to save the world.
“This project brings peace and makes us expand our thinking about nature.”
Hlongwa said they enjoyed the support from local residents. Their good work had attracted people from other countries to come and buy their fresh produce.
He said any organic farmer or artist was welcome to join the Sunday Market.
For more information, visit Green Camp Gallery Project on Facebook.