Bhubesini Family
Oil on unstretched canvas
149 cm x 106 cm
ARTIST’S STATEMENT
Bhubesini family celebrates a brotherhood and family formed by male members in my township, including my uncle. Their friendship started in their high school days, growing over the years, and the group grew larger. They even started a local football club in Kokstad called Bhubesi FC. The name Bhubesi means lion. The painting serves as recognition of influence not only in the artist’s life, but also of his township, Bhongweni. This group of men served as positive role models. They contributed to their community with the skills they had, becoming teachers in local schools, being part of the local government in Kokstad and its Bhongweni Township. Bhubesini family members also assist each other’s families in times of need, not only with monetary contributions but also with their time. You will often find them setting up tents, clearing yards if there’s a funeral or occasion at a friend’s home. This relationship shaped a lot of the artist’s outlook on masculinity, friendships and most importantly, brotherhood. They saw them hosting meetings and checking up on each other’s well-being, both physical and mental.
The artist uses the South African currency design as a metaphor for value, which such individuals bring to their community. The painting serves as a celebration of individuals who create localised solutions for local problems, through fostering healthy relationships.