Abstract:
The design discourse focuses on a Textile Art Centre proposed for the Tshwane University of Technology site adjacent to Nelson Mandela Drive in Pretoria . The site is underutilized, used only as a parking space when the Breytenbach Theatre is staging shows. The establishment of an active urban node will contribute to the Nelson Mandela Corridor Development, as this site is allocated as a landmark to introduce the southern gateway to the city. It will be a contributing component to the Arts and Culture precinct, connecting the public spaces of Oeverzicht Village with Esselen Street. The author is of the opinion that the sole purpose of Architecture is to serve. The educational and training centre will accommodate postgraduate students of the Department of Textile Design and Technology as well as community skills development groups that previously had no access to such facilities. It will establish links to enforce human behavioural patterns and strengthen relationships, creating a diverse mixture of vibrant public uses in a culturally interactive space. A place will be created where people from different backgrounds can reflect on their identities and cultures and where individual expression is valued. Textiles exploit these differences, which in the process bring forth many prospects. The centre will indulge the fashion fanatics and educate the uninformed. Any person who strives to learn more and attain a textile-related self-sustaining practice could participate and enrol in the Skills Team’s programmes. Funding will be obtained from the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), the Cultural Craft Industries Design Unit of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Tshwane Municipality. It will also be necessary to obtain financial contributions from private organisations and South African Government Departments. Management and support will be supplied by TUT staff and private individuals.
