Original South African Art: Surita Bouwer - Dawn of Resilience

Artist: Surita Bouwer

Title: Dawn of Resilience

Size: 400 mm x 500 mm

Medium: Acrylic on stretched canvas

Price: R6500

Framed

Description: 

In recent years, people have struggled to recover from depression due to losses in family, friendship, and finance. The COVID-19 pandemic, economic instability, and political unrest have all taken their toll on our collective mental health.

When I saw Pablo Picasso's painting "The Old Guitarist," I was immediately struck by the image of a gaunt, elderly man lost in thought. His eyes are downcast, and his face is lined with sadness. I saw in him the reflection of so many people who have been struggling in recent years.

As a Christian, I found hope in the story of Ezekiel 37. In this passage, the prophet Ezekiel sees a vision of a valley full of dry bones. God tells him to prophesy over the bones, and they come to life. I believe that this passage offers hope to all who are struggling with depression. God can breathe new life into our dry bones and restore our hope.

This painting also has personal meaning to me. I am a painter myself, and it has been a while since I have painted. When I saw "The Old Guitarist," I was reminded of the joy of creating art. The layers of paint and steps that Picasso took to create this masterpiece reminded me of the "layers" of bones and flesh that took place before God's final breath (his blessing) that was spoken over me.

I believe that God has created us all to be creative beings. When we create art, we are reflecting the image of God, who is the ultimate Creator. I pray that all who are struggling with depression will find hope and healing in God's creativity.

Surita Bouwer is a South African Artist and a Top 100 finalist in the AGAC 2023.