Independent Newspapers
Jabulani Ndlanzi (front) and Phumlani Shozi create sand sculptures on Durban’s beachfront to earn money to support their families. Photo: Lauren Rawlins
Durban – Unlicensed sand sculptors on Durban’s beachfront have been offered a lifeline to continue their artistic means to make ends meet after a local law firm said they it pay for permits allowing them to operate.
This was after several illegal sculptors were removed and their artworks destroyed by metro police officers in recent weeks, with the most recent eviction taking place on Wednesday.
Pather and Pather associate Edward Abraham said their firm was in contact with eight sculptors and in the process of sponsoring the R39-a-month licence to operate on Durban’s golden mile.
“These guys are really just trying to make a living. As a firm of attorneys we believe the law has to be obeyed, so, if they need a permit, we will sponsor it,” said Abraham.
The decision to assist the sculptors was made after one of the senior partners in the firm – who regularly walked along the beachfront – became aware of the city enforcing its bylaws and brought this to the attention of his colleagues.
“We are just trying to come to their assistance,” said Abraham, after the team at the law firm agreed the beautiful artworks, along with their creators, should not be barred.
Abraham said they tried to apply for the permits on Thursday but were told the sculptors had to be present and an interview conducted before the licence could be issued.
Local sand sculptor Jabulani Ndlanzi, who is already accredited with the city, said it was “very good news” that his unlicensed colleagues would be getting their permits.
“We have been here for years. This is our job, how we make money,” said Ndlanzi.
He said the required licences, though, were too expensive for people in his position.
“We have to pay bus fare, support our families, and some days we don’t make any money.”
With regards to police removing sculptures, Ndlanzi said it was a “worrying” trend.
The eThekwini municipality were unable to comment at the time of publication.
The Mercury
