Art Fixture: The light fantastic, made of plastic

An Umcebo Design chandelier is a handmade piece of art. With nature as a central motif, you are likely to spot a scattering of colourful fish, meticulously crafted sunbirds or oversized daisies on the dramatic, enormous show stoppers.

Umcebo's distinctive pieces are generally constructed from wire, beads, crystals - and 2litre plastic ice cream containers.

Working with recycled materials, said Robin Opperman, the man behind the Umcebo Design concept, demonstrates that you can be creative with the most limited resources.

Said Opperman: "There is an abundance of recyclable materials that hold the possibility of creating stuff that can go into a gallery."

But is it art? Yes, said Opperman.

"What makes it art is that it is all about taking materials and making a beautiful piece; the materials are a means to an end. A successful recycled piece is one that people appreciate for its beauty and are drawn to, and only later find out that it is recycled."

An important moment for Opperman was the selection of his chandeliers for the World Design Capital competition in Cape Town last year.

"It gave us a place next to what is considered 'proper fine art'."

In a competition launched this year by the Durban Art Gallery, Durban artists were asked to submit plans for an outdoor public art piece. Umcebo Design was one of three finalists, all of whom are currently part of a group exhibition at the gallery.

Umcebo's bespoke pieces - as well as chandeliers there are sconces, tapestries, and lamps - have been commissioned by the likes of Oprah Winfrey, Rita Marley and King Goodwill Zwelithini. A steady stream of products make their way to collectors in Europe, and the organisation has public art installations in the form of almost life-size rhinos at the Durban City Hall and the arrivals hall at Durban's King Shaka International Airport.

The organisation has a long history of working with marginalised communities, and runs regular workshops with organisations such as the Black Sash and Valley Trust, teaching people the skills of turning trash into treasure.

More collaboration is on the cards for this year. The Intellectual Property Exhibition will bring together creatives in decor, design and art for an exhibition at the KZN Society for the Arts.

Visit www.umcebo-design.co.za for more information,