The capital of Mauritius experienced a boom in 2017 when it comes to street art. The city arranged the 3rd edition of the cultural festival, Porlwi by Nature in desember that year. The street art activity really escalated and so many more murals appeared. The best thing about being there during the festival, is that it is possible to watch the artist at work daytime and nighttime, following the development of the murals.
This beautiful 10 meter long mural is painted by Armand Gachet, Mauritian artist. From facebook I learned that he did this in may 2017.
The theme of the festival was nature and reconnection with it. A theme that is reflected in the choice of artist invited for the festival.
Painted by Gitahi Godfrey Kariuki from Kenya. By the side of each artist at work, there were boards telling the artist name, what kind of technique he or she uses etc. About Gitahi it said: «Born in Kenya, the artist has been exposed to the natural world since he was an infant, perceiving it as a reservoir of inspiration. He addresses the theme of nature with candor, accustomed to the complexities of nature, mortality, change and growth». Social Science major at the African leadership College in Mauritius. www.instagram.com/tahi3
The artist is Joanna La Gesse. The information besides her mural says: «She is inspired by the beauty and magic of Nature. Her mission is to awaken the public to this beauty and magic so that it creates a desire and responsibility to care for Mother Earth».www.joannalagesse.com
Painted by Bault from France, about whom it says «Ranging from detailed drawings of fantastical creatures to artmaking that is inherently raw and instinctural, Bault's electic work balances on the razor's edge between liberty and absurdity. He draws with the freedom of a child, using his strong academic knowledge to defy and reject codes, rules and conventions. His outspoken art – a cabinet of curiosities – offers an atypical representation of our world».
The artist started on this large mural during the festival, but was not finished by the time I left. I will look it up next time I will be in Port Louis.
Port Louis has street art worth checking out if you want a break from the beach. The city is colorful and lively from before, but the street art has given the city a whole new dimension. All are in the inner city and easy walkable. I think it took me 4-5 hours including time for shorts breaks.
Next week: The Porlwi by Nature. You can find it here https://steemit.com/travel/@digi-me/porlwi-by-nature-a-cultural-festival-and-a-feast-for-the-senses
U.J
Kristiansand, Norway
All the photoes are mine, Ulla Jensen (flickr, Instagram and facebook)