Internationally acclaimed artist, Strange Harvest, is painting a colourful “Be a Buddy, Not a Bully” mural at JS Klopper Primary for free.
Pretoria, South Africa (01 August 2025) – In a world where famous artists usually have their work hanging in top galleries or selling for small fortunes, one internationally acclaimed artist proves how far kindness goes. World-renowned artist Murray Cowan, popularly known as Strange Harvest, is proving that creativity can change lives in the most unexpected places.
The celebrated painter swapped his usual global stage for the walls of JS Klopper Primary School, where he is creating a vibrant mural, entirely for free.
Murray, internationally known for his striking depictions of war and conflict, has built a career capturing the human stories behind battlefields. Yet, despite his international acclaim, he has chosen to dedicate his time and talent to a small local school in a simple act of giving back.
The project is more than just about adding colour to the school walls. JS Klopper Primary has been actively addressing bullying, and Cowan’s mural will carry an important message: “Be a Buddy, Not a Bully.” Bright, cheerful, and filled with heart, the artwork is designed to inspire learners every single day, reminding them to choose kindness and friendship over cruelty.
Beyond the visual impact, the mural is a daily reminder that their school matters and that their community has the power to attract acts of generosity from even the most celebrated figures.
Watching a world-class artist trade prestigious galleries for playground walls sends a powerful message. That art does not just belong in museums or private collections. It can live where it is needed most, in the places where young minds dream and grow.
Murray’s gift to JS Klopper Primary is more than a mural; it is a legacy of hope, creativity, and community spirit. Murray Cowan has turned an ordinary school day into a masterpiece of giving back.
by 