Lilian, 2025
Yarn embroidery and beads on cotton textile
103 cm x 79 cm
Artist’s Statement
In 2025 I embarked on an ambitious project titled Women Woven Together where I utilised traditional women’s handicrafts to create a body of ten works over 3 months that honoured and celebrated iconic South African women and acted as an activistic manifestation in its undertaking. Lilian, a portrait of South African Apartheid activist Lilian Ngoyi, is one of the outcomes.
The tapestry is composed using a collage of historical imagery, meaningful symbols, and intricate patterns which directly reference the life and legacy of Ngoyi.
The icon is adorned with a radiant crown like halo representing her faith. Visual elements symbolise her extraordinary achievements and enduring influence. They are communicated through the surrounding Bantu symbols and additions to her person.
Themes of women’s power (Womandla!), compassion, courage, struggle, and activism are preserved through the image and the act of its creation.
To bring this vision to life, I employed 20 women from diverse cultural backgrounds and age groups – all had no prior experience in embroidery or beading and had limited or no income opportunities.
Through dedicated training, I equipped each of them with the skills to contribute to the intricate handwork, fostering a collaborative environment where artistic expression and skill-building flourished.
Working side by side, myself and the artisans meticulously created and embellished the tapestries, transforming them into a vibrant testament to resilience, solidarity, and creative empowerment.
By establishing a space for community, craftsmanship, and shared storytelling, the tapestries not only preserve history but also stitch together a future of opportunity and artistic legacy.
