Changing attitudes to the baboon troops of the southern Peninsula will be reflected in what is believed to be a world-first: a baboon-inspired art exhibition that opens at Kirstenbosch this week.

The exhibition is being hosted by Baboon Matters, the company that manages the baboon monitors who try to reduce conflict between the baboons and local residents by keeping the animals out of urban areas.

"Over many years the issue of baboons has been the subject of heated emotions, with people equally polarised in their attitudes," explained Jenni Trethowan of the company.

"Those who dislike the baboons vent their fury and often go out of their way to hurt the animals.

"Conversely, the people who like the baboons and want to see them protected generally stay quiet on the subject and have not voiced their support and concern as loudly as the vociferous anti-brigade.

"That is all changing - the pro-baboon masses are making their concerns heard and are challenging the authorities to make adequate funds available for the successful management of these intelligent primates, and certainly more people than ever are expressing sympathy for these beleaguered primates."

Artists were also now becoming involved, Trethowan said.

They include people like Masiphumelele sculptor Lebo Lefuma, who is fascinated by everything about baboons and who is pouring his passion for these creatures into unique ceramic sculptures, which show the many similarities between baboon and man in a humorous way.

The artwork, which will be on display at the Sanlam Centre at Kirstenbosch Gardens, is "a multi-media collection of creativity that captures the fascinating, humorous and contemplative side of baboons", Trethowan said.

It includes a diverse range of paintings, ceramics, photographs, metalwork, beaded work and wooden sculptures. The exhibition runs from Friday for a week, from 9am to 5pm daily. Admission is free.

For further information contact Baboon Matters on 021 782 2015.