SEIKO

Work from the series "I AM"

This series tells the stories of a handful of women, who indirectly represent women all over the world. I try to convey the story, personalities and character of these ladies, while also trying to inspire the viewer to search their true authentic self when they look into their eyes. What do you see in them? Can you guess their story? What is your first impression? Looks can be deceiving…And when you look closely, what then...do you see in yourself? What is your story? What do you portray to the world?

And is it real?

SEIKO

This painting is part of a series of woman from South Africa.  Her name is SEIKO - a Japanese name that means force and truth. SEIKO represent all women that have to endure xenophobia, those who are fighting to survive in a place where they are not welcomed. She is a warrior. SEIKO's parents came to South Africa just before her birth. They opened a shop on a busy street corner in a crowded city. SEIKO's mother went into labour early, so she had to give birth in the back of the shop. They didn't have medical insurance back then, so when SEIKO contracted meningitis, they feared for her life. She came through it, but not without significant hearing loss. But since SEIKO grew up to be true to her name, she did not let her disability hold her back. Her determination to succeed made her a force to be dealt with. Her whole family learned to sign, and it was not long before SEIKO discovered another hidden talent - her wicked sense of humor. She wants to be a stand-up comedian for the deaf. Her best friend is FRIDA - can you believe it...they met when FRIDA's mom helped SEIKO's mom give birth to her in the back of the shop. (She is a doctor). FRIDA's mom was buying saké for her fancy sushi-dinner with her book club, when SEIKO's mom suddenly went into labour. There was no time to get her to hospital. FRIDA's mom dropped her groceries, put FRIDA back in her carry-cot, jumped over the counter and one hour later SEIKO entered the world. And even though they came from complete separate worlds, their girls became inseparable...not at all what one expects from her xenophobic reality.

"Oh SEIKO, you prove that true friendship can cross boundaries, cultures, disabilities and status. You are inspiring!"

Painting oil on canvas.
Sizes: 50 x 70 cm