Vibrant mural unveiled at The Service Dining Rooms in District 6
The heart of District 6 in Cape Town has become even more vibrant with the unveiling of a striking mural on the garage door of The Service Dining Rooms (SDR), located on Canterbury Street. This mural, a kaleidoscope of colour and creativity, marks a significant milestone in the organisation’s history, celebrating 90 years of serving the local community.
Founded in 1935, The Service Dining Rooms has upheld a vital mission, providing nutritious weekday meals at a minimal cost. What once cost just a tickey now requires R2, yet for many residents, it remains a vital lifeline, reflecting the ongoing commitment to care for those in need.
The mural, crafted by renowned local artist Gogga—celebrated as South Africa’s first graffiti artist—injects new life into an already historic area. Gogga, born Mogamat Natheer Hoosain, has been a significant figure in Cape Town’s artistic landscape since the 1980s.
“I got the name ‘Gogga’ in Std 6 and, as I became better known in the creative community, the name stuck,” he explained, reflecting on his artistic journey that includes breakdancing and graffiti.
Locals might reminisce about the vibrant murals of Charly’s Bakery, which paved the way for a flourishing street art movement in the city in 2009. Now, SDR’s mural joins this legacy, adding a contemporary twist to the area’s rich cultural tapestry.
The composition of the mural is a feast for the eyes and rich in meaning. Featuring a bustling sea filled with fish, it pays homage to the long-standing partnership between SDR and the seafood supplier I&J Fishing. Meanwhile, the iconic Table Mountain looms majestically in the backdrop, under a warm orange sky, a symbol of resilience and beauty. A seagull, soaring overhead, embodies the spirit of freedom, movement, and the promise of new horizons.
“This mural is a tribute to the community we serve and to the long-standing partnerships that sustain our mission,” said Janey Ball, a spokesperson for The Service Dining Rooms. “It serves as a daily reminder of our commitment to community care and as a beacon in the storied tradition of District 6 street art.”
As District 6 continues to evolve, residents and visitors alike are encouraged to stop by and experience this vibrant new addition, which adds both visual splendour and a powerful narrative to the SDR’s ongoing service of compassion and connection.