Bond Beyond Differences
Medium
PaintingMaterial
Mixed MediaDescription
In this moving painting, Florah Maphosa goes beyond colour to confront one of Africa’s most painful realities: the experience of people with albinism. Having formed close bonds with artists in Zimbabwe who live with albinism, Florah understands their struggles—the exclusion, myths, and fear they face. This work becomes her gentle protest and a call for acceptance.
The two women, one dark-skinned and one with albinism, sit together in harmony, sharing a simple moment of joy. Their matching floral dresses reflect their shared humanity, while the cups marked “Cheers Girls Rock” celebrate strength and unity. At their feet, a dog and cat rest peacefully, reinforcing the theme of natural coexistence.
Through vibrant colours and intimate symbolism, Florah transforms a painful history into a hopeful vision. She invites viewers to recognise the equal worth of every person and to embrace all shades, all stories, and all people with dignity and compassion.Try it!
