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kamohelo

2023 Competition entry

Reamohetse Lekhooe

Details:

Charcoal and chalk pastels
297mm x 420mm

Description:
The artwork I'm presenting is part of a portrait series that holds deep personal significance to me. In this series, I've chosen to feature two subjects, my brothers, and have titled the pieces "Tshwaro" (Grace) and "Kamohelo" (Acceptance). Growing up under the same roof, I've shared both my triumphs and setbacks with them, and I wouldn't trade those experiences for anything. While we certainly have our disagreements, we've never resorted to physical fights. Instead, we've always resolved our differences through conversation, a quality for which I'm immensely grateful. Having someone to share not only childhood but also adulthood with is truly a remarkable bond.

The artwork serves as an expression of my appreciation for the profound relationship I share with my brothers. It's a tribute to the moments we've spent together and a token of gratitude for their unwavering presence in my life, whether during challenging times or moments of triumph. I've created this art with the intention of capturing the essence of our connection, with our gazes locked in mutual understanding and unity.

To craft these pieces, I employed charcoal and chalk pastels. Using hatching techniques with charcoal on paper, I've incorporated hatching marks that symbolize our shared journey, including the memories we've created and the inevitable regrets we've encountered along the way. The prominent yellow circle within the artwork represents the hope we hold, the dreams we carry, and our collective aspiration for our relationship to remain resilient and cherished.

The background, infused with vibrant chalk pastels, creates a visually striking backdrop that accentuates the subjects. These colours bring an element of brightness and vibrancy to the artwork, echoing the light that our bond provides in our lives. The subjects' direct gaze toward the viewer invites a moment of connection and appreciation for the artwork and, symbolically, for the shared moments we have had together.

This creative journey has reinforced the importance of appreciating the people who enrich my life. Through "Tshwaro" and "Kamohelo," I hope to convey not only the depth of my relationship with my brothers but also the universal value of cherishing the meaningful connections we have in our lives.