Bongani Nkosi

Bongani Nkosi

A metal sculpture that will stand at the foot of Queen Elizabeth Bridge in Johannesburg, overlooking Nelson Mandela Bridge and the entrance to the inner city, has been designed by artist William Kentridge.

The sculpture will depict a woman carrying a brazier.

According to Kentridge, it invokes memories of the 1990s, when many African women used braziers for business and to warm themselves.

The sculpture will be made of black and white powder-coated metal, making it strong while adding a different element of beauty to Johannesburg's public art.

"The sculpture will be in various layers to make a coherent picture even from a long distance," Kentridge said.

At 13-metre-high and 6-metre-wide, it will be the biggest sculpture in the inner city.

Stephen Hobbs, director of Trinity Session, the company contracted to manage Joburg's new public art, said production of the sculpture was progressing.