IN MEMORY OF NELSON MANDELA 1918-2013
We were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Nelson Mandela.
Our thoughts are with his family and friends and with the nation of South Africa for whom he brought both hope and change to countless lives for this and many generations to come.
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.
We were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Nelson Mandela.
Our thoughts are with his family and friends and with the nation of South Africa for whom he brought both hope and change to countless lives for this and many generations to come.
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.
