A kraken grapples with a submarine in a new mural at the SA Navy Submarine Museum.
The 40m² work by the Simon’s Town Art Group (Stag), depicting the struggle with the mythical monster from the deep, symbolises the challenges submariners face in the ocean, according to the group’s chairperson, Marelise van Wyk.
“We are always on the lookout for public spaces where art can make a difference,” she said.
Stag member Tony Wintour led the mural project.
Stag members visited the site with retired Rear Admiral Digby Thomson on Friday September 13 to look at the wall where the mural would go.
“By Tuesday October 1, we had presented a few design ideas to the Navy Submarine Museum committee,” said Mr Wintour. “They unanimously picked the kraken design, and we started painting on Tuesday October 22 .”
Stag members worked together on all aspects of the four-metre-high mural, from priming the wall and painting the background to mapping out the design and adding details.
“Reaching the top was tricky,” Mr Wintour said.
The project, which was undertaken pro bono by Stag with financial support from the Simon’s Town Civic Association and the museum, was finished on Tuesday November 5.
Civic association executive member Alexandra Jongens said they had contributed R1 000 toward material costs, covering half of the total expense.
“The museum also assisted by providing and applying the paint primer,” she said.
Ms Jongens said the mural brightened up the museum’s entrance.
“The mural has transformed a dull, grey wall into a colourful and playful feature. It’s sure to become popular for photographs.”
Rear Admiral Arne Söderlund, trustee of the Naval Heritage Trust, said work on the sub museum was steaming ahead, and trees and a pergola had been added to the surrounding public area.
“The hull of the Assegaai is now looking magnificent, although the port side still needs a final coat of black paint. Access doors and stairs are in place, and internal lighting is almost complete. Soon, we hope to have ventilation running as well,” he said.
Inside, renovations are nearing completion, with models and exhibits being arranged. He added that a trial opening was planned for Monday December 16 to test visitor procedures and train volunteer guides.
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