During the period between 1969 and 1970, Winnie Madikizela Mandela spent 491 days locked in solitary confinement. This painting is an attempt to honor her legacy as well as highlight her role as a leader in the liberation movement during South Africa’s apartheid government. Women are rarely seen as pivotal figures in the violent struggle for equality, but in most cases, they are the head of the organizations and should be honored as such:

Adinkra symbols are also symbolically represented in this work of art:

AYA

"fern"

symbol of endurance and resourcefulness

The fern is a hardy plant that can grow in difficult places. "An individual who wears this symbol suggests that he has endured many adversities and outlasted much difficulty."

OKODEE MMOWERE

"the talons of the eagle"

symbol of strength, bravery, power

The eagle is the mightiest bird in the sky, and its strength is concentrated in its talons. The Oyoko clan, one of the nine Akan clans, uses this symbol as their clan emblem.