Art in Africa

Because art is such a profound reflection of culture and because we have Rachel, our very own artist, traveling with us, we decided to dedicate today to exploring art in Africa. We had no idea that we were in for such a fantastic learning experience and that we would meet so many brilliant and creative artists. The day began with a trip out to the gallery and home of Maria Naita, a local artist and friend of Alexis and Agnes. Her art stunned us by its size and magnificence. Maria sculpts large, sometimes giant, subjects and she also paints. Her images of African women and children are particularly moving. We all loved her series focused on "Blind Faith" as well as her paintings of dancing, celebratory women and children. We loved her work but it was actually the work of one of her art students which we purchased for the walls of Ursuline. Maria has a student named Harriet who is a teacher and her colorful, cheerful painting of African women under a purple sky seemed the perfect choice for us. It was very exciting because Maria called Harriet and she came running over with excitement because this was her first art sale! As she is a teacher, it thrilled her to know that her work will be displayed in a school. Harriet is the woman jumping fr joy in pink in the photos above - she was delightful and Maria was equally happy for her success!
In the afternoon, we met even more artists at the National Theatre Market where there are many little shops with countless treasures. The artists have a corner where they display their work and it reminded me a bit of the Hippie Fair in Rio. I wish that I could tell you that we purchased everything that we loved today but sadly, neither our budgets nor our suitcases could handle that impact. Nevertheless, we purchased quite a lot and we learned even more about Africa through these talented and creative people.
Well, tomorrow is our last day in Uganda and we will soon be headed home with our memories, our treasures and our ideas for bringing Africa to Ursuline and vice-versa. All the words on this blog are too few to fully express the life-changing experience that we have had. We are so grateful to precious Agnes and the staff of Empower African Children for all that they have done to host and take care of us every step of the way - none of this adventure would have been possible without them! And to my fellow travelers, well, you have delighted and impressed me every day with your kindness and your openness both with each other and with the people of Africa - what stellar role models you are for our students and what a privilege to share this experience with you!!
Finally, to Alexis, the kindest, bravest and most compassionate person I know... You are a gift to the universe and to the children of Africa in particular. We love you and we love your shoes (you know the ones). I stand in amazement at all that you have accomplished and will continue to accomplish - what a blessing for all of us to share this time with you!! Waybale from the bottom of our hearts!
One more glorious day in Africa (will try for one last post before we leave) and then we'll be on our way home...