Middelburg Mall’s R200m expansion to feature Local Art

The creative talent of two of Middelburg’s finest artists has been commissioned for a public art installation as part of the R 200 million second phase expansion of Middelburg Mall.

The New Entrance at Middelburg Mall

As one of Mpumalanga’s leading shopping destinations, the mall is expanding and is set to open its second phase ahead of the year-end festive season on 18 October 2014.

Middelburg Mall General Manager, Mike Tammadge says: “At entrance four we have a demarcated an area especially for the art work. Shopping is about the experience and we wanted to create a relaxed atmosphere where shoppers feel almost at home. Bringing in art work enhances the experience which is very important to us.”

Commissioned artists Philmon Talane and Coster Mkoki were winners of the mall’s popular annual “My Middelburg My Region Art Competition” recently. Talane claimed the winning prize in the painting category with his artwork ‘Steve Tshwete offices’.

Philmon Talane, Middelburg Mall Art Competition Winner

“I’m extremely happy that my art will be part of Middelburg Mall and I hope it inspires other up and coming artists as well,” Talane said.

I wanted to show that talent is everywhere – in all corners in South Africa. I also wanted to show people that Steve Tswete Municipality one of the cleanest in the country through my painting, says Talane.

Winner of the sculpture category and third-time entrant to the competition, Coster Mkoki

Winner of the sculpture category and third-time entrant to the competition, Coster Mkoki, has created a sculpture especially for the expansion. Mkoki says his sculpture of a cow atop an antique tractor was inspired by the local community.

The idea came from bringing a number of different industries in the area together – from farming to mining and manufacturing. It’s a very humbling experience and I’m honoured that visitors to Middelburg Mall will be able to see my sculpture. This will be my first piece of public art. Everyday life and people inspire my art, adds Mkoki.

Once completed, the expansion will increase retail space at Middelburg Mall by 12 500sqm.

Tammadge says: “Construction is progressing well and we are looking forward to the opening of our exciting second phase. Shoppers will not only get greater retail variety, but an enhance shopping experience at Middelburg Mall with public art and our landmark clock tower, which is part of the expansion.”