Johannesburg, South Africa – February 3, 2025 – Mall of the South proudly concluded its uniquely presented Sculpture Competition, a groundbreaking initiative that fuses art with environmental consciousness. The exhibition, which ran from December 6, 2024, to February 2, 2025, invited customers and community members to vote for their favourite sculptures, spotlighting local artists while emphasizing sustainability.

The sculptures were displayed in Mall of the South over the December Festive season, in place of its traditional Christmas Décor.

A total of 583 votes were cast during the community voting period, with the top four sculptures selected based on public engagement. The standout pieces, which resonated with audiences for their environmental themes, include:

• Waste Layers, Woven Lives by Mbali Lala
• Mmatshepo by Mmutla Kgwankga
• ReIlluminate by Rene Uys
• Whale Tale by Pholile Hlongwane

A distinguished panel of judges, including Hester Smith, Centre Manager for Mall of the South, Nicky Vakaloudis CEO SOJO Business & Tourism, Tumi Moroeng, Managing Director at Makers Valley Partnership then selected our two winning sculptures.

Whale Tale by Pholile Hlongwane and Mmatshepo by Mmutla Kgwankga emerged as the judges’ top picks, each artist receiving a R20,000 grand prize, from Mall of The South. As a lasting tribute to their creativity, these sculptures will be permanently displayed at the mall, underscoring Mall of the South’s commitment to sustainability and artistic expression.

The event was further enriched by the contributions of Mall of the South tenants, Life Grand Café and Piatto, who provided exceptional catering for guests. Special thanks also go to the dynamic Tandi Potgieter, the event’s MC, for making the celebration an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

Mall of the South remains dedicated to fostering community engagement and promoting sustainable initiatives. Through events like the Sculpture Competition, the mall demonstrates that creativity and environmental responsibility can thrive hand in hand, uplifting local artists and inspiring positive change.

Participating Artists

1. Pholile Hlongwane | Instagram:@Pholile_Hlongwane | Facebook : Pholile Hlongwane
2. Mmutla Mashishi
3. Rene Uys | Instagram: @besterene | Facebook: Rene Uys
4. Kenny Nkosi | Artist | Kenny Nkosi |
5. Mbali Lala | https://mbalilala031.blogspot.com/
6. Ofense Chikasha

For more information on the Sculpture Exhibition and future initiatives, visit www.mallofthesouth.co.za or follow us on social media:

• Facebook: Mall of the South
• Instagram: @mallofthesouth