Zini zebras immortalised
RESIDENT zebras that once roamed the streets of Mtunzini will always be remembered after the special unveiling of a life-size piece of art on Sunday.
The two-dimensional zebra, positioned on a concrete plinth, stands on the island between Hely Hutchinson and Station streets, is a permanent landmark dedicated to the town's equine former residents.
This community project was the dream of Zini resident Elize Viljoen and supported by Mtunzini Rotary Club.
The dream was turned into reality by two artists, Koos Best and Clint Hartley, who came up with the concept of a life-size public art piece.
Young eShowe potter Lindsay Phillips created beautiful stoneware tiles with the names of the patrons around the plinth on which the zebra stands.
An inscription on the plinth reads: 'In honour of the roaming three who made these streets and parks their habitat, who shared the stars and the sun with those who call Mtunzini home'.
"When the zebras were removed and relocated to the Amatikulu Game Park [in 2015], they left a large void in the small town," said Viljoen.
"They were beloved by all in Mtunzini. There were water bowls for them outside shops and it was no surprise to find them outside your gate in the mornings.
"This year, it was decided to erect a permanent art installation that can be enjoyed by locals and visitors to the town."
Viljoen expressed her gratitude to uMlalazi Municipality for giving them permission, as well as other patrons such as Mtunzini Residents' Association, Community Farmer Network, Kirkwood Attorneys, Jeanette Ferreira in remembrance of Prof Albert van Jaarsveld, the De Clercq family, the Husband family, Sonnia and Harold Kruijer, Pennelope and Prof Jean Steyn, and Garry Wrightson with their son Sebastian.
Speaking on behalf of uMlalazi Municipality, Keith Powell praised the residents for their care and for keeping the town in pristine condition.