- Muizenberg-based artist Gavin Larkin created a unique portrait of Nelson Mandela using faces and posters of current political leaders.
- Larkin’s artwork highlights the juxtaposition of Mandela’s image with modern politician.
- The piece aims to inspire youth to explore various artistic mediums and embrace creativity.
Although the winds of change had been blowing through the political landscape and his art studio as the inspiration for his latest piece, Muizenberg-based artist Gavin Larkin couldn’t have known just how right he would be.
Wanting to paint a portrait of Nelson Mandela while using the faces of the current political leaders ahead of the 2024 National Election, Larkin used the posters of several political parties found around the area to bring Mandela to life.
“I did this piece of artwork for the South African general election and it was to really focus on the election and expose what was about to happen and it actually did happen. I didn’t know it at the time but it did happen,” he says.
Juxtaposition
“I come out of the ad industry, I’ve been a creative, I’ve owned an ad agency for a long time, always coming up with ideas and I had this idea to paint Mandela and then take all the current politicians that we have been seeing on the lamp posts, on the election posters, cut them out and actually blend them into Madiba’s face.
“So, we got this lovely juxtaposition of Madiba 30 years ago and our current political people.”
Knowing that the Government of National Unity (GNU) – or in some form – may have been a reality due to the African National Congress’ (ANC) failing position in the polls leading up to the election, the announcement of the results gave greater significance to the piece.
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At a glance, the iconic image of Nelson Mandela is evident. But on closer inspection, it reveals much more detail.
With faces, slogans, hands and other parts of these posters used in the shadowing and colouration of the art work, it brings to life the juxtaposition Larkin hoped to achieve.
“I knew that this was going to have some significance because the ANC weren’t doing so well and I was absolutely right and what’s going on currently is dynamic and fascinating,” he says.
Inspire
Larkin hopes to inspire the youth to be creative and embrace various mediums of art beyond the traditional paint to canvas.
Some of his other work also features recycled materials.
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Larkin has an art studio based at 91 Main Road, Muizenberg, where art lovers can see this piece and everything from traditional to modern and abstract art pieces.
People can also follow him at Gavin Larkin Art on social media.
