Cadbury P.S. Spreads Love in Braam with a Vibrant Mural Takeover
Cadbury P.S. Spreads Love in Braam with a Vibrant Mural Takeover
Johannesburg’s Braamfontein district transformed into a colorful hub of love and expression this Valentine’s Day, thanks to a special collaboration between Cadbury P.S. and visionary artist Tebogo Phafudi. The initiative, which saw the unveiling of two striking murals, aimed to celebrate love in all its forms—romantic, platonic, and self-love—through the power of art and culture.
A Canvas of Love and Culture
Phafudi’s murals, splashed across the walls of De Beer Street and the old Great Dane building, reflect the vibrant essence of Braamfontein. Known for its rich cultural vibe, the area became the perfect backdrop for an artistic expression of love. “I was inspired by colors,” Phafudi shared in a recent interview. “Bright colors bring happiness, and when you look around this area, you see a lot of them. It creates a sense of love and joy.”
The mural’s bright hues and dynamic designs capture the lively spirit of the community, celebrating not just romantic relationships but also friendships, connections, and shared moments. The choice of colors—especially the soft, romantic pinks—resonates with the universal theme of love, making it an inclusive and heartfelt tribute to the occasion.
Interview with the Artist: Tebogo Phafudi
We had the opportunity to sit down with Phafudi to learn more about his journey, inspiration, and the meaning behind his latest work.
Q: What was your inspiration behind the vibrant murals, and how do they tie into the essence of Braamfontein?
Phafudi: The colors were my main inspiration. I appreciate bright colors because they bring happiness. When I look around Braamfontein, I see a lively, colorful space where people express themselves freely. It felt natural to use vibrant colors that create a welcoming and joyful atmosphere.
Q: You’ve worked on murals in both townships and urban spaces. How has your artistic journey evolved, and what does this collaboration with P.S. mean to you?
Phafudi: I’ve always dreamed of reaching a point where my art could be displayed on a large scale. I started painting smaller murals in townships and gradually worked my way up. This collaboration with P.S. is a major milestone for me. It was the first time I worked on something this big, and while it was challenging, my team and I pushed through. I’m grateful to P.S. for giving me this opportunity—it means a lot to me. I hope this is just the beginning of more large-scale projects.
Q: Braamfontein is known for its cultural vibrancy. How do you think your murals contribute to the area’s identity, especially in the context of Valentine’s Day?
Phafudi: My work adds to the cultural richness of Braamfontein. I believe that art should bring people together, and this mural is a reflection of love and unity. The colors and designs I used celebrate the diversity and connections that make this city special. Love isn’t just about couples—it’s about friendships, self-love, and community, and I hope my work captures that spirit.
Q: Do you see your murals as more than just art? Are they a form of storytelling?
Phafudi: Definitely. Every piece I create tells a story. This mural is about love in all its forms—romantic, platonic, and self-love. Art has the power to inspire emotions and connections, and I want people to see themselves in my work. When someone walks past my mural, I hope they feel joy, hope, and a sense of belonging.
Q: What do you hope people take away from your murals?
Phafudi: I want people to be encouraged by what they see. If they have a partner, I hope it reminds them to appreciate love. If they’re single, I hope it inspires them to embrace the beauty of love in different ways. Love is colorful, and I want my art to reflect that.
More Than Just Art—A Love Story
While murals often serve as aesthetic enhancements to cityscapes, Phafudi’s work carries a deeper narrative. His belief that “art, love, and culture are one and the same” is evident in the storytelling embedded in his designs. He hopes that those who see his work feel inspired to embrace love in their own lives. “If you have a partner, cherish them. And if you don’t, maybe these colors will encourage you to find love,” he joked.
The murals were just one part of a larger Cadbury P.S. Valentine’s Day celebration at The Playground in Braamfontein. Attendees enjoyed a day filled with music from renowned DJs like Malumz on Decks and DJ Pedabotic, delicious eats from local vendors, and engaging activities such as the “Shoot Your Shot” hoop challenge and a message wall for heartfelt confessions. With giveaways—including a grand prize trip to Zanzibar—the event was a memorable experience for all.
A Legacy of Love in Braamfontein
Even though Valentine’s Day has passed, the impact of Phafudi’s murals remains. These artworks continue to brighten Braamfontein, serving as a daily reminder of love, culture, and creative expression. Through this collaboration, Cadbury P.S. has not only painted walls but also woven love into the very fabric of the city, ensuring that the spirit of Valentine’s Day lingers long beyond February 14th.
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