In “Whispers of Bloom,” Florah Maphosa transforms the human face into a living garden of emotions and renewal. Emerging from the dark tones of the skin, delicate white vines, blossoms, and golden bees intertwine with vivid butterflies, symbolizing harmony between nature and spirit. The piercing blue eyes mirror both vulnerability and strength — a reflection of African femininity reimagined in full bloom. Through her intricate detailing and poetic symbolism, Maphosa celebrates the resilience and beauty that grow even from silence, portraying a woman who carries life, nature, and dreams upon her skin.

Whispers of Bloom

In “Korona yedzvinyu,” Florah Maphosa draws on Zimbabwean beliefs where the lizard (dzvinyu) is seen as a silent messenger moving between sunlight and shadow, the physical world and the spirit realm. Perched on a glowing blue sphere, the lizard symbolizes renewal, intuition, and ancestral protection, echoing the Shona idea that its presence carries warnings, blessings or shifts in energy. 
 
The woman’s divided face—part realistic, part abstract—reflects the two realms of African cosmology: the body (muviri) and the inner spirit (mweya). Her contrasting eyes suggest dual sight, the ability to perceive both the visible world and the unseen forces shaping it. The textured earrings evoke cultural lineage and feminine strength. 
 
Together, woman and lizard become a single symbol of instinct, identity and spiritual balance, showing how nature and human consciousness remain deeply interconnected in Zimbabwean life.

Korona yedzvinyu

This powerful painting depicts a young girl with determination in her stance, reaching down to take a golden crown from the ground. The crown symbolizes her inherent strength and future leadership rooted in her origins. With a bold spirit, she claims her purpose - to rule with conviction, unmoved by external forces and unsilenced by challenges. The artwork captures her resolve to rise, grounded in her roots, toward a future of empowerment and leadership.

Claiming Power

Radiating pure joy, Little Charmers captures the innocence and playful curiosity of childhood. Florah Maphosa portrays a young girl gleefully stepping forward, her bright outfit and colorful beads symbolizing vitality and hope. Wearing oversized red boots and holding a matching handbag, she mirrors the world of adults in a moment of carefree imitation. The butterfly dancing in front of her becomes a metaphor for wonder, growth, and transformation. Against the vivid blue background, the child’s laughter becomes almost audible—reminding viewers of the beauty of simple moments and the boundless dreams of youth.

Little Charmers

This vibrant artwork depicts a young child exuding confidence and style. The child, dressed in a bright orange outfit, stands against a stark white and blue background, creating a striking visual contrast. They wear oversized pink sunglasses and a crown, symbolizing both playfulness and regality. The child confidently holds a large pink handbag emblazoned with an “LS” emblem, matching their pink sandals, hinting at a fusion of street style and high fashion. The use of bold colors enhances the playful yet assertive tone of the piece, capturing a blend of youthful innocence and aspirational luxury. The artwork's unique combination of elements evokes a sense of empowerment and individuality, celebrating a vibrant and modern expression of childhood.

Prosperous Future

In this luminous portrait, Florah Maphosa presents a figure poised between strength and introspection. Rendered in striking cobalt blue against a soft violet ground, the woman’s gaze turns gently away, suggesting inner thought rather than outward display. The carefully patterned garment and bold earring anchor the figure in cultural memory, while the refined modeling of skin and light elevates her into a timeless presence. Maphosa’s work celebrates feminine dignity, individuality, and calm authority, offering beauty not as ornament, but as quiet, self-possessed power.

Quiet radiance

In this striking portrait, Florah Maphosa presents a figure of quiet authority and unmistakable self-possession. Rendered in deep, resonant blues against a warm ochre ground, the woman turns her back to the viewer while meeting us with a steady, unflinching gaze. Her posture is both vulnerable and powerful — exposed yet entirely in control. 
 
The vivid contrast between skin, fabric, and background heightens the tension between softness and strength. Most arresting is the single earring bearing the word “STOP” — a subtle but potent symbol. It reads as a boundary, a refusal, and a declaration of agency. It is not shouted, but calmly worn. 
 
Maphosa’s work speaks to contemporary womanhood: to autonomy, dignity, and the right to define one’s own limits. This is not a portrait asking for permission. It is a presence that commands respect — elegant, composed, and resolute.

Florah Maphosa - Zurich 8 - 10th May