Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 17 years on Robben Island and 27 years in total. He regarded survival in the inhumane conditions he and his fellow inmates experienced there as a triumph of the human spirit. It is a victory he has celebrated in his art where he has been inspired to draw the images which held the greatest meaning for him. The “My Robben Island” series contains the Window, a symbolic view from his cell, the Lighthouse which to him was both a beacon of hope and of oppression, the Church, which is endowed with a spiritual glow, the Harbour where prisoners entered and freedom ended and the Cell where his few possessions are highlighted. In his Motivation with its universal message he states his philosophy and how he faced and overcame the challenges forced upon him by the brutality of the system of apartheid. His talent also shows in his series of hands which are symbolic of the struggle and depict with skill how his country broke the shackles of tyranny and achieved its freedom.
Nelson Mandela’s right hand, Hand of Africa, has become an iconic symbol internationally. The palm has a remarkable resemblance to the shape of the continent of Africa as though he holds his beloved country in his hand.
Belgravia Gallery directors, Anna Hunter and Laura Walford, spent time with him at his home in Johannesburg where they recount:
“In 2002 we spent a happy and memorable time with him at his home in Johannesburg where he told us of his vision to use his art to help underprivileged children affected by HIV and the associated poverty and isolation. We were very privileged to be entrusted with the sale of his art to allow this vision to continue. He credited Princess Diana for making him aware of the nature and scale of the human disaster. He chatted easily and warmly about the Royal Family - mentioning meeting "Elizabeth": "I recognise you from the stamps," he quipped and the Queen responded, "And I recognise you from the t-shirts." Mrs Thatcher also delighted him with her skills at making and pouring tea.
A few weeks later, together with our family, clients and friends, we joined Nelson Mandela at a dinner on Robben Island in 2003, to launch his artwork. He spoke of his love of colour and joy at drawing, and told us that when he finally retires, he would like to become a full- time artist.
Arguably the greatest statesman of the twentieth century, his achievements and personal triumph have become a powerful symbol to people all over the world that good will ultimately prevail.
To have spent time in Nelson Mandela’s company, and to have represented his artworks for over 10 years, is something that we feel incredibly blessed to have experienced. Like everyone who encountered his warmth, humour and sheer presence, we will remain forever in awe of the man and his place in history.”
Nelson Mandela’s right hand, Hand of Africa, has become an iconic symbol internationally. The palm has a remarkable resemblance to the shape of the continent of Africa as though he holds his beloved country in his hand.
Belgravia Gallery directors, Anna Hunter and Laura Walford, spent time with him at his home in Johannesburg where they recount:
“In 2002 we spent a happy and memorable time with him at his home in Johannesburg where he told us of his vision to use his art to help underprivileged children affected by HIV and the associated poverty and isolation. We were very privileged to be entrusted with the sale of his art to allow this vision to continue. He credited Princess Diana for making him aware of the nature and scale of the human disaster. He chatted easily and warmly about the Royal Family - mentioning meeting "Elizabeth": "I recognise you from the stamps," he quipped and the Queen responded, "And I recognise you from the t-shirts." Mrs Thatcher also delighted him with her skills at making and pouring tea.
A few weeks later, together with our family, clients and friends, we joined Nelson Mandela at a dinner on Robben Island in 2003, to launch his artwork. He spoke of his love of colour and joy at drawing, and told us that when he finally retires, he would like to become a full- time artist.
Arguably the greatest statesman of the twentieth century, his achievements and personal triumph have become a powerful symbol to people all over the world that good will ultimately prevail.
To have spent time in Nelson Mandela’s company, and to have represented his artworks for over 10 years, is something that we feel incredibly blessed to have experienced. Like everyone who encountered his warmth, humour and sheer presence, we will remain forever in awe of the man and his place in history.”
