James Delaney, a South African sculptor and painter, is transforming public parks in Johannesburg with vibrant metal sculptures. He aims to make these spaces more engaging and welcoming in a city often known for its high crime rates. Delaney recently unveiled his newest public art installation at Killarney Park.
The installation includes colorful sculptures representing local wildlife, such as a kudu, a giraffe, and a baby deer. His goal is to encourage residents to use and enjoy public spaces, counteracting the city’s reputation for danger. “Public art has the potential to change the way people feel about their environment,” Delaney said during the official opening of his installation.
Delaney’s artistic transformation of parks
“By bringing art into parks, we can create spaces where people feel more welcome and safe.”
Residents who attended the launch praised Delaney’s work. One local resident said, “The sculptures bring a lot of joy and color to the park.
It’s amazing to see such creativity in our neighborhood.”
The artworks also feature newly installed gates designed by Delaney, which have already become popular photo spots for visitors. Delaney hopes these installations will serve as community focal points and deter crime by encouraging more foot traffic and active engagement in public spaces. “Art can serve many functions beyond its aesthetic value,” Delaney remarked.
“It’s about improving the general well-being of the community and making public spaces enjoyable for everyone.”
Through his extensive work, which includes more than 100 sculptures for The Wilds Park in Johannesburg, Delaney continues to advocate for the role of public art in urban renewal and community building. As Johannesburg grapples with issues of safety and community cohesion, initiatives like Delaney’s offer a glimpse of how the power of art can contribute to social progress and urban transformation.