The 24-metre high sun-shaped sculpture, named the SunStar, was unveiled on Signal Hill in Cape Town. The sculpture was conceptualised and designed by Cape Town artist and founder of the Robben Island Art Company and Trust (RIACT), Christopher Swift, and is also a showcase project for Cape Town: World Design Capital 2014.
Twenty years into a new democracy and almost a year since the passing of global icon Nelson Mandela, Capetonians and visitors to the city are being encouraged to express their hope for the country’s future with the unveiling of a dramatic sculpture, which will stand as a reminder of South Africa’s greatest story, and a shining symbol of hope for the future.
The SunStar is a temporary art installation standing on on top of Cape Town’s Signal Hill. It was constructed in large part from the steel from the original fence once surrounding Robben Island.
Sun International, sponsors of the project, said that this critical component of the sculpture showed how the ultimate symbol of Apartheid has been transformed into an inspiring piece of art that stands as an invitation to the world to share their hope for the future of South Africa.
The site for the SunStar sculpture was chosen for its impressive views over the city and to allow locals and tourists easy access.
Michael Farr, Sun International’s Group General Manager: Brand and Communications, says: “Signal Hill has a shared history amongst all Capetonians and is easily accessible by road just a few minutes outside of the City Centre, with uninterrupted views of Robben Island, Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, Devil’s Peak and the city. Being able to stand beneath the sculpture with spectacular views of both the City of Cape Town and Robben Island in the distance will give people a powerful incentive for contemplation, reflection and conversation about our future.”
Swift’s design importantly takes the environment and sustainability into account too.
The sculpture features a solar powered light system made up of low-power LED strip-lighting and flood light support which will light up the sculpture at night. In daylight and after dark, the sculpture is clearly visible from the air and visitors flying into Cape Town will be treated to aerial views of the installation as they come in to land.
The sculpture has been approved by SANParks, the Robben Island Museum, the City of Cape Town, and the Department of Public Works.
The installation of the sculpture has been in itself a remarkable project. Following comprehensive environmental and geotechnical assessments, the SunStar has been installed using an innovative ground anchorage system rather than conventional concrete foundation bases. This system is specifically designed for use in ecologically sensitive areas or areas where excavation is not possible, and requires no earth works or concrete pouring and allows the soil at the base to remain unsealed. It also means the structure can be easily removed after the permit period.
The project is also likely to have a positive impact for tourism in Cape Town with the SunStar being an added drawcard to Signal Hill for local and international tourists alike. Signal Hill is already a well-visited spot by tourists, but the addition of the SunStar will add a new dimension to something many have experienced previously.