Conservation strategies for contemporary street art in Pretoria : a study of Jared Pereira’s public paintings

Abstract

This study aims to shed some valuable light on the world of street art in Pretoria and will also explore ways to conserve this art form. This case study is specific to the street artist Jared Pereira, who practices in Pretoria, South Africa. This was done by visiting the artist’s works and is based on an interview with the artist. This is an understudied field in Southern Africa.

My study aims to not only investigate artist’s intent, but to investigate the temporality of street art. Focus will also be placed on the environment and experience of street art and how this ties to its conservation (for example through time-based media such as videography and interactive imagery). New practices should be established in the conservation of these public art pieces. My hope is that this study will provide insight into the practical care of street art and both historical and relevant contemporary graffiti under the ideas of ethical boundaries, biodegradation, artist’s intent, and material care. The notion of temporality is not a theme of investigation but an objective of the study.

It was concluded that including the artist in the conservation process is integral when possible. Gaining insight into Jared Pereira’s (JESTR’s ) thoughts on his work in museums, moving into the digital world and conserving his works authentically was of great value to add to the very complex conversation surrounding the conservation of graffiti and street art. The way his works mutate with their environments and how he approaches this (by also changing the works and letting the public see what he wants them to see), and his unique use of NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) to reclaim the temporality and illegality of his works; proves for a fascinating conservation study. Studying the artist Jared Pereira is an illuminating experience concerning street art in Pretoria. It opens up a new world of art accessible to everyone; a world worthy of conservation and celebration.