Sources of inspiration

Moved by the vitality, mutual care, and early independence of orphans in Swaziland, I came up with the idea of expressing that sense of hope in a painting. “Touched by the Vilakati Family” was the working title.

And the first painting to emerge was “Ga.” When it was finished, I decided I couldn’t simply sell it and resolved that 50% of the proceeds must go to such orphans. Donations and proceeds have been transferred to www.youngheroes.org.sz/ Following the painting “Ga” came the little boy Macabo, who carries out his daily wash entirely on his own. No rubber ducks or water play, but a serious matter. Cleaning himself for the day. And one by one, the ideas for the next paintings in the series emerged.

After I finished the series, I was able to travel to South Africa, where I met the children in person and promised them that I would not forget them.

Following this trip, several more paintings inspired by this extraordinary continent will follow.