Transforming the Merensky 2 Library: A Vibrant Mural Art Project by Visual Arts Students

Library users of the Merensky 2 Library, located on the Hatfield campus, have undoubtedly noticed the ongoing construction project that commenced on July 7, 2023 and is scheduled for completion on October 31, 2023. This significant endeavour aims to enhance the safety of the building and ensure compliance with building regulations. During this period, certain areas of the library, including the main staircase, the atrium on levels 5-6 and floor 3, were affected by construction. This led to the necessary placement of temporary construction boards on these floors.

Amidst these temporary measures, the Library's Marketing Office envisioned an opportunity to infuse creativity into the library space. They decided to encourage students to adorn these temporary boards with various artworks and messages. To bring this concept to life, Fundiswa Buthelezi, an Information Specialist in the Faculty Library of Humanities, introduced Elsabé Olivier, the library marketer, to Ms Denél Chetty, a Lecturer of Information Design in the Department of Visual Arts, to explore the possibility of involving her students in this unique project.

Ms Chetty, brimming with enthusiasm, immediately tasked her Visual Arts students with the exciting challenge of creating a mural on level 3 of the Merensky 2 Library. Several key considerations guided the students throughout this creative journey:

1. Space and Scale: Each group was allocated two boards, requiring them to meticulously consider proportions and spatial dimensions to infuse dynamism into their illustrations.
2. Cohesive Illustration Style: Students were encouraged to develop rough sketches of their illustrations, ensuring the creation of contrast and meaningful content within the murals.
3. Quality of Line and Mood: The overall mood and tone of the artwork and the design of characters and worlds were meticulously investigated and fine-tuned.

The project kicked off with the painting of the partitioned walls in white during the week of September 12-15. The real artistic journey began on September 26, 2023, with the students pouring their creativity onto the boards. The culmination of their efforts marked the completion of the project during the first week of October 2023. It is worth noting that all characters painted on the walls were envisioned and designed by the students, perfectly aligning with the overarching theme of storytelling and seamlessly integrating with the library's core ideals.

The Department of Library Services takes immense pride in the artistic achievements brought to life through this collaboration with the Department of Visual Arts. This initiative has opened the doors to further creative endeavours by their students, promising an exciting future filled with more innovative and engaging artwork within the library space.

View the artworks in our Instagram Reel Here or come and see them in person, on level 3 of the Merensky 2 Library. 

A sneak peek at some of the amazing artwork.