Street artist Mook Lion has painted a mural at Graeme College with the school’s learners, funded through the Johan Carinus auction.
Makhanda, South Africa (02 November 2026) – A leopard now leads young people through the jungle on a wall at Graeme College, painted by the school’s learners alongside street artist Mook Lion.
The pro bono participatory mural grew out of the Johan Carinus auction, the annual art fundraiser hosted by the Johan Carinus Art Centre in Makhanda.
The auction features donated works, mostly by local artists, including paintings, photography and some sculpture. The money raised supports the centre’s programmes, from art supplies for learners at partner schools to equipment for the centre itself.
The auction raises funds for the Johan Carinus Art Centre’s programmes, which includes outreach teaching at Ntsika and Nombulelo schools.
For the design, Mook Lion turned to Graeme College’s emblem, the leopard.
“We depicted the Graeme College school emblem of the leopard guiding the youth through the jungle.” he shared.
Mook brought the school’s learners into the process, so the wall carries their work as much as his.
“The students were focused and dedicated and a pleasure to work with.” he added, thanking the Graeme College and Carinus staff.
Mook is a well-known South African street artist who uses public art to tell important stories and bring fresh energy to shared spaces. His work has long stood for promoting good – he has a track record of partnering with NPOs and good causes.
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Much of his street art projects have served communities and involved the people in them.
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