Intonga Yam Ngumsimelelo Wam
In IsiXhosa intonga is the name given to a stick used to support oneself, however it is also used to refer to the song one turns to when they perhaps aren’t confident in their ability to sing anything else. Msimelelo, in the most literal translation refers to a walking stick, but also has other connotations around a supportive person or structure, something which one leans on.
The first 2 illustrations in an ongoing series, these pieces aim to portray these African musical icons as not just the political and socio-cultural ginats that they were, but to also emphasize the joy and pleasure they derived from their music. And in doing so, take a more intimate look at what sustained them, and what they might have turned to for strength.
The first 2 illustrations in an ongoing series, these pieces aim to portray these African musical icons as not just the political and socio-cultural ginats that they were, but to also emphasize the joy and pleasure they derived from their music. And in doing so, take a more intimate look at what sustained them, and what they might have turned to for strength.
Hugh Masekela
Miriam Makeba
Thanks for coming by!
