Steyn alive: dance to the tune of verdance, wow factors and upliftment

To breathe fresh, clean air, to be surrounded by indigenous flora and fauna, and to appreciate the sophistication of local art and design are luxuries many of us strive for. Imagine having all of this on your doorstep, to enjoy whenever your heart desires.

Steyn City, a curated lifestyle resort in Johannesburg’s new north, has acres of open, lush, green space. Nestling within this urban ecosystem are bold, cleverly located land-art and sculptures that encourage friends and family to step outside and interact with them. All the land-art pieces in the Steyn City parkland are part of a programme to uplift Diepsloot artists.

The initiative, originally overseen by renowned sculptor Charles Gotthard, includes artists such as Martin Umali, Melvern Makhonya and Martin Garafa. The creative project is now being overseen by Frans Jacobs, who plans to include many more local artists.

We can’t imagine a better way to spend a Sunday than packing a picnic basket and getting an intellectual and physical boost by exploring Steyn City’s artistic offerings. You can almost feel the ground beneath your feet tremble as you tentatively step onto Giant Awakening, a huge land-art piece depicting a lazy-looking giant grasping at the trees and soil as he hoists himself out of his bed of earth.

Our favourite is Ubuntu, a quietly spiritual piece situated next to a peaceful stream. Eleven elders and a leader are meant to represent each of SA’s 11 official languages. The figures are depicted as calm contemplative in their stone circle and there is something strongly reminiscent of the ancient stone henges dotted throughout Europe in their stoic bearing, as if they are puzzling out the mysteries of our land.

With 60 of these unique pieces dotted throughout the Steyn City parkland, you’re guaranteed to discover new creativity every time you pop out for your morning run or walk.

This article first appeared in Wanted Magazine.