Decorative artist transforms Sir Lowry’s Pass Village through art and empowerment

Internationally renowned decorative artist from Sir Lowry’s Pass, Charlie Vettori, has found a renewed sense of purpose closer to home.

Over the past two years, the artist with more than 40 years of experience has led a community-driven mural project in Sir Lowry’s Pass Village, called PaintSLPV, transforming neglected public spaces into vibrant works of art while creating opportunities for some of the area’s most vulnerable residents.

Ms Vettori, who has painted in homes belonging to the likes of Elton John, Mick Jagger and Oprah Winfrey, said it was repeated drives through the village that moved her to act.

“I saw poverty, neglect and despair, but I also saw enormous potential,” she said.

Following a breast cancer scare, Ms Vettori said she felt compelled to give back. She began by painting a section of the village wall in April 2024, with bright proteas and vines, and later created a new village sign.

“The response from the community was overwhelming,” she said.

Twenty-one months on, Ms Vettori and her 10 trainees, now known as The Posse Magic Team, together with local children, have completed close to 3 000 metres of public wall murals throughout the village. 

The artworks focus on beauty, hope and empowerment, while also reclaiming neglected spaces.

“Our art has uplifted the community, and we are now attracting tourists, creating jobs, and stimulating the local economy. Private commissions enable our artists to earn a living. We also conduct art tours through the township’s street art corridors, which end with snacks and drinks at the local shebeen,” said Ms Vettori.

One of her trainees from Lwandle, Mziyanda Dayile, said the project made a difference in his life.

“I have been earning a living and building a career. She has opened doors to new forms of art and opportunities. I was struggling, my house was burnt down, but working with Charlie helped me rebuild it.”

Imãn Daniels, another trainee artist from Sir Lowry’s Pass, said: “The initiative has created a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me. Not only am I able to earn an income by doing the one thing I love most, but I also receive mentorship from such an inspiring artist.”

The team was recently awarded a grant from the City of Cape Town’s Grants-in-Aid programme and the National Arts Council to paint three underprivileged crèches and create a series of historical murals depicting the village’s heritage.

Ms Vettori is now seeking funding to expand the project. The planned initiatives include murals for Cape of Good Hope SPCA cattery walls, early learning and anti-bullying murals at Hope and Light School, and eight historical murals featuring SnapScan links that share the village’s rich heritage with residents and tourists.

Members of the public can support the non-profit initiative through a back-a-buddy campaign by clicking on this link, or by donating towards daily or weekly artist costs, purchasing paint supplies, or commissioning custom murals.

For more information, you can contact Ms Vettori via this email address: charlievett@icloud.com.