Two masterpieces from world-renowned award-winning artist Marco Olivier have taken pride of place at the RLabs building in Westridge.
The resin-cast sculptures of Mandela’s face were donated to Rlabs following a visit by Olivier and the Italian minister of Art and Culture earlier this month. This visit was on invitation by the provincial minister for Cultural Affairs and Sport, Ricardo Mackenzie.
Olivier, whose workshop is based in Kensington, says while he was reluctant to visit, he is now reluctant to leave.
The artworks were part of a Mandela legacy project and were installed in the entry of RLabs on Thursday 19 September.
Olivier is a global award winning artist, with some of his work featured in Dubai, Italy and the United States of America (USA).
RLabs CEO, Christine Taphel says they have always tried to create an art-immersive environment, featuring the works of both emerging and established local artists.
“Art has always been part of what we do,” says Taphel. “This is the cherry on the top because it shows the people that they are art dignified.”
Mackenzie says when he met with Olivier he took him around several places in Mitchells Plain.
“I met him and discussed what’s happening in Mitchells Plain and I took him and some other artists from Italy around Mitchells Plain, particularly here at RLabs and they were inspired by what’s happening and asked me how they can contribute,” he says.
Mackenzie then visited the Kensington workshop to view the pieces ahead of its installation.
Olivier, who will soon travel abroad for more awards nominations, including Italy and Dubai, says he was so inspired by the work of the youth at the centre and wanted to make this donation.
“We look at all these young, vibrant minds and souls, we know tomorrow will be better than today. This is a great honour, obviously,” he says.
“It speaks for itself. It’s a wonderful facility.
Mackenzie says the addition of these art pieces will inspire all who visit the facility.
These sentiments were echoed by RLabs founder Marlon Parker.
“The significance for us with this is the fact that a young child can come into the space and they will see something that resonates with them and it just shows them that they can keep on dreaming. And we just want to say thank you for your commitment for this beautiful piece that resonates not just a story of hope for us but also your story of hope that shines through Madiba’s legacy,” he says.
