A Long Walk

Artist Statement – Motsamai Tshabalala

A Long Walk

This relief tile cut print, “A Long Walk,” represents the journey I had with my father, Jonas

Tshabalala, who passed away in June 2023 at the age of 78 years. He was my role

model, and I felt that I needed to pay homage to him. The figure of an old man walking

away from the viewer represents the struggle in his life, and the surroundings represent

the hopes he had for this family.

This artwork is created using a lino block/marley tile because of its versatility and

intricacy. The patterned, cycled lines used in the print represent the hopes and

everlasting spirits that surround the passing of my father. The cyclical nature suggests

the continuity of life and memories, which is another way to honor his legacy.