Zunzi's Makes Submission Process Easier, Extends Deadline for Mural Contest
In July, Zunzi’s launched a contest to find a local artist to paint a mural illustrating the South African concept of ubuntu to adorn the exterior of its flagship store in Atlanta’s West Midtown neighborhood. After feedback from local artists, the popular eatery, known for its mouthwatering menu of South African-inspired sandwiches and cuisine, has simplified the submission process and extended the entry deadline to Wednesday, Aug. 26.
“After discussions with artists in the community and getting their feedback, we decided to simplify the contest submission process,” says Zunzi’s owner Chris Smith. “The new format will make the contest more accessible to artists wanting to participate while also being respectful of their time.”
Interested artists can submit their portfolio, a few sentences about their interpretation of ubuntu and what it means to them along with a one-paragraph bio, their social media handles, phone number and email address via email to ubuntu@zunzis.com. Artists are welcome to send in any artwork for consideration as well. Submissions will be accepted through 12 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 26.
The South African concept known as ubuntu is one of Zunzi’s core principles. “Ubuntu is about the essential human virtues of compassion and humanity,” adds Smith. “It means, ‘I am because we are,’ or ‘Humanity towards all.’ It’s always been a part of our culture. When you drive by or walk up to our restaurant, you’re going to know exactly what Zunzi’s is about and what ubuntu is about. It’s a message that I feel we really need.”
Artists are required to incorporate Zunzi’s rainbow umbrella and one of the following quotes into the mural:
“A person with ubuntu is open and available to others, affirming of others, does not feel threatened that others are able and good, for he or she has a proper self-assurance that comes from knowing that he or she belongs in a greater whole and is diminished when others are humiliated or diminished, when others are tortured or oppressed.”—Desmond Tutu
"In Africa we have a concept known as UBUNTU—the profound sense that we are human only through the humanity of others; that if we are to accomplish anything in this world it will in equal measure be due to the work and achievement of others.”—Nelson Mandela
Zunzi’s management will select the winner and commission the artist. The selected winner will receive a $5,000 commission plus supplies to paint the mural on a 25’ x 9’ wall. The winner also will receive free Zunzi’s meals for one year.
By entering the contest, the artist acknowledges that the art submitted is their own, and the artist gives Zunzi’s the right to use the likeness of the submitted art on its social media platforms and affiliate media channels. The contest is open to all artists age 18 or above living in Atlanta. One submission per artist.
Zunzi’s Atlanta is located at 1971 Howell Mill Road. For more information, please call 470-698-2351 or visit zunzis.com.