17 December 2015
In honour of Nelson Mandela, a giant tapestry has been unveiled at Cape Town International Airport, according to Amnesty International.
Measuring approximately six by three metres, and called Flying Madiba, the work of art was designed by acclaimed Czech artist Peter Sis and woven by Atelier Pinton in Aubusson, France. It is on display at the airport’s international arrivals hall, and was installed on 10 December 2015 to mark International Human Rights Day.
“This tapestry is a fitting tribute to Nelson Mandela, a champion of human rights across the world,” said Bill Shipsey, Art for Amnesty’s founder. “It will provide a constant reminder to the millions of people passing through the Cape Town International airport about his legacy, not only for South Africa but for the world.”
According to Amnesty International, the tapestry was generously backed and funded by musicians and artists such as Bono and The Edge of the band U2, John Legend, Peter Gabriel, Sting and Yoko Ono.
“Madiba sacrificed his own freedom to see a better world for everyone,” said Muleya Mwananyanda, Amnesty International’s deputy director for Southern Africa. “With this tapestry, we are honouring his sacrifices and hoping that he will be remembered forever.”
Mandela received Amnesty International’s most prestigious award, the Ambassador of Conscience Award, in 2006.
“The tapestry will take pride of place in our International Arrivals Hall. It will be the final piece of a broader ambience programme in that area which already has various elements creating a sense of place,” said Deidre Davids, the manager for communications and brand at the airport.
‘Explore philosophy that places our problems in an international and historical context’ – Nelson Mandela.
— Art for Amnesty (@Art4Amnesty) December 6, 2015
Amnesty International is a global movement of more than 7 million people who campaign for a world in which human rights are enjoyed by all.
Source: Amnesty International
