This painting is based on a photograph I took 10 years ago, of this woman in Esigodini, Zimbabwe. I used my Oupas 35mm camera, and took the photo through the car window while my Dad was driving.
A few months ago the photo came to my mind and I decided it was time to paint it!! Painting people is unusual for me, I found it to be very challenging and also very rewarding.. "Umbuya" means grandmother in Shona, I tried to capture the essence of this word as I've experienced it.. Esigodini is located in the foothills of the Matopos national park, a UNESCO world Heritage site in souther Zimbabwe. It is an arid an intensely hot area with breathtaking views and a vibrant culture that is bountiful with ancient traditions..
She is vibrant, and powerful 💪🏼
