Akukho Ndlovu yasindwa umboko wayo, 2026
Wood
52 cm x 31 cm x 26 cm
Artist’s Statement
My sculpture is a tribute to my grandmother and the resilience, wisdom, and determination she embodied throughout her life. It portrays her carrying a large wooden plank on her head while balancing herself with a walking stick, reflecting the physical labour and responsibilities that formed part of her daily life.
My grandmother often said, “Akukho ndlovu yasindwa umboko wayo” (“No elephant is burdened by its own trunk”). She lived by this proverb, believing that people are capable of carrying the responsibilities placed upon them, no matter how difficult they may seem. Her words reflected the way she approached life, facing challenges with perseverance, dignity, and an unwavering sense of purpose.
To me, my grandmother was the pillar of the family. She was the person who held everything together and ensured that life continued moving forward despite hardship. This idea is reflected in the formal construction of my sculpture. The figure is built from blocks and cylinders, geometric forms that suggest stability, support, and endurance. The stacked forms resemble structural elements that carry weight and provide a foundation, symbolising my grandmother’s role as the person upon whom others depended.
Through this sculpture, I honour my grandmother’s legacy and the sacrifices she made for those around her. By transforming a personal memory into a sculptural form, I celebrate the often-unrecognised labour of women who serve as the foundation of their families and communities.
Image Gallery
