GYMPIE STREET-THE HEART OF WOODSTOCK

A bustling and friendly community immersed by dilapidated charm and Fantastic Mountain views– that’s what I discovered in Gympie Street, a place notoriously popular for its petty thieves, dope fiends and gang violence.

I must admit-Gympie Street scared me! Many of friends- told me not to go- even Google hits screamed DANGER-STAY AWAY!

But being a reckless adventure junkie, I was compelled to go. So finally last Tuesday, I summed up enough courage to venture into what most people regard as Cape Town’s dragon’s lair!

I was quite surprised to find the opposite. Gympie Street as it turns out, can be as safe as any other place in Cape Town-that is if you take a trusted and reliable tour guide!

Nestled between the mountain and the bustling inner city of Cape Town- Gympie Street is a veiled photographer’s dream! Walking through the old and colourful Victorian type houses, I discovered a number of reclusive old architectural styles – all set against a gritty urban existence.

The Quaint Georgian type Houses in Gympie Street

The graffiti on most of the walls here reflects a rich artistic aptitude. Artists such as Indi Go have left behind a rich legacy of work on the walls of Gympie Street. It is clear that,  street art plays a key role in commenting on the social environment.

Sadly with gentrification gaining momentum in Woodstock, things are set to change- Gympie Street may be on the road to losing its charm and its culture.

So, if you’re into trawling for gritty urban photographs -make use of the  opportunities offered in Gympie  Street… before it’s too late.