A couple of years ago, after leaving Checkers grocery store, I met a flower seller named Debbie. Her vibrant display captivated me, and I purchased a bunch of flowers, which I later painted. As I contemplated a title for the piece, I decided to honour Debbie by naming it “Debbie’s Flowers.” This experience sparked my idea for a project that would connect me with the community at Trafalgar Place Flower Market in downtown Cape Town.

I approached the men and women at the market and invited them to participate in a collaborative project, where they would choose their own bouquets for me to paint. Initially, the concept was vague, but it gradually evolved into a shared dialogue about flowers. I aimed to capture not just the beauty of the blooms, but also the stories of those who nurture them. My goal is to highlight the remarkable individuals behind the market, sharing their experiences and knowledge, and celebrating the rich heritage of Trafalgar Place.

Nestled along a pedestrian lane, the Trafalgar Place Flower Market—often referred to as the Adderley Street Flower Market by locals, is one of Cape Town’s oldest and most iconic markets. If you’ve visited, you’ll know it’s far from an ordinary market; it’s a vibrant hub of culture and history. The sellers, known as “Blomdraers” (flower carriers), pass down their expertise through generations, with many belonging to families that have been in the trade for over four generations.

This continuity underscores the importance of preserving traditional knowledge to ensure it endures. The flower sellers have been trading along Adderley Street since at least the mid-1880s. While the market attracts both locals and tourists, its rich history often remains overlooked, with no plaques or storyboards to share its significance.

A portion of the sales from my project will go to the flower sellers and The Trafalgar Place Flower Market, supporting the local economy and helping to sustain this cultural gem. Through this endeavour, I hope to raise awareness of the market’s beauty and history, inspiring appreciation for Cape Town’s iconic Flower Market. Thank you for your support.