Something new for SU’s Old Main Building

An artwork, depicting the preamble of the Constitution of South Africa, is being erected in front of Stellenbosch University’s (SU) Law Faculty building, the Old Main Building.

The artwork in front of the Old Main Building is due for completion during September, said Martin Viljoen, Stellenbosch University spokesperson. PHOTO: Supplied/Strijdom van der Merwe

The installation, portraying the preamble in English, Afrikaans and isiXhosa, is due for completion within the next three weeks, according to Martin Viljoen, SU spokesperson. 

 The project, initiated in 2017, is part of SU’s current redress project that is aiming to give effect to SU’s vision of an inclusive institution that is committed to a transformative student experience, said Viljoen.

“We believe that art installations, such as this one, will contribute to transforming our spaces to be welcoming, inclusive and increasingly diverse as envisaged in SU Strategic Framework,” he said.

This project creates opportunities to encourage reflection and conversations about lessons from the past and the possibilities of our future, as enshrined in the South African constitution, Viljoen said.

According to the artist of the installation, Strijdom van der Merwe, the university had approached him to design the artwork due to his style and approach towards public sculpture.

Van der Merwe’s appointment came after a comprehensive process involving the SU visual redress committee, faculty staff and students, the university management, as well as various external role players, Viljoen said.

“[I am] extremely proud to be the chosen artist, as I have fond memories of this building,” said Van der Merwe, who attended classes in the building as a student in 1980.

Contractors working on the installation. The installation, which will stand in front of the Old Main Building, depicts the preamble of the Constitution of South Africa in English, Afrikaans and isiXhosa. PHOTO: Rebecca Pitt

According to Van der Merwe, due to the Old Main Building often being used as a symbol of the university, he was particularly careful to create a sculpture that would not distract from the front view of the building.

“The design went through many changes and the input of many parties to get to the stage where we are now. You can say it is a collaboration that evolved from the original concept to the present,” said Van der Merwe.

The project emphasises the underlying values of not only the law, but also broader humanity, said Michelle Lottring, transformation officer of the university’s Juridical Society and SU student.

“This is a clear indication that the faculty and university is willing to engage in the process of intentional change by striving towards a welcoming campus culture to make all students, staff and visitors feel welcome despite all intersectionalities,” Lottring said.