Madiba

Acrylic on canvas
90cm x 90cm

Today we awoke to hear the news that Nelson Mandela had passed away at 8:50 pm on 5th December (South African time).

Madiba counted the cost and stood for justice, freedom, and hope for a future for South Africa. He was against black domination and he was against white domination. His vision for South Africa was a place for all – standing side by side.

Heaven rejoices today as they welcome him in. But here on earth, we mourn even as we celebrate his life, and his massive contribution to humanity.

I remember the day when he walked out of the prison gates – taking the final steps of his Long Walk to Freedom with his wife by his side. The country was jubilant as he raised his hand in victory. I remember the day when we stood in queues as long as streets, for hours, waiting to vote in South Africa’s first truly democratic election. Black and white, we stood side by side, united in untiring determination to cast our votes. The hope of a glorious future beckoned for all our children.

We need to continue to work towards what Madiba was prepared to die for. South Africa is now a democracy – but poverty, crime and corruption soil the purity of the vision Madiba gave the major part of his life to fight for. He saw a future where black and white came together in unity, where there was equal opportunity for all, where the human rights of every person were cherished, and where collaboration, reconciliation and truth could forge a beautiful future for South Africa and all her children.

I painted a picture where black and white come together in unity: a portrait of Madiba.