The name Sakhile is Zulu origin, meaning “we have built” or “we have constructed”.  The name is often interpreted to mean “we have built something together” or “we have constructed something as a community”, which represents a spirit of collaboration and community.

I am SAKHILE. My recent artistic journey has been a process of learning to embrace my name, my identity, and the unique beauty of my Ndebele culture. It is a journey of self-discovery, one that has led me to a profound understanding of the importance of cultural heritage and the power of art to convey a message that transcends language.

Art and writing have always been my primary channels for self-expression. Each brushstroke and word I write is a celebration of who I am, a bridge connecting the past and the present.

Growing up, I was captivated by the mesmerizing geometric patterns and vivid colours that adorned the Ndebele homesteads and clothing. These intricate designs were not just art; they were a form of storytelling, a means of communication, and a reflection of our deep-rooted cultural identity. It was in these patterns that I found my first artistic inspiration.

The Ndebele tribe’s artistic tradition is marked by its distinctive use of geometric shapes and vibrant colours. These elements, which once served practical and symbolic purposes, now form the foundation of my artistic expression. I am proud to say that my work is deeply rooted in the Ndebele aesthetic, serving as a homage to the legacy of my ancestors while infusing it with my own unique voice.

The Collection:

My latest collection is a testament to this journey of self-discovery and cultural celebration. Through a fusion of traditional Ndebele patterns and contemporary artistic techniques, I seek to tell stories of resilience, strength, and the enduring spirit of my people. Each piece in this collection is a mosaic of memories and emotions, a dialogue between my heritage and my personal growth.

Through my work, I hope to inspire others to embrace their own identities, to appreciate the richness of their cultures, and to find their unique voices in the world.

Ndebele art is a vibrant and distinctive form of creative expression by the Ndebele people in South Africa and Zimbabwe. It features geometric patterns, bright colours, and intricate designs used in house painting, beadwork, and textiles. This art holds cultural significance, preserving traditions and stories for generations to come.

The representation of Ndebele women in art can serve as a celebration of their strength, resilience, and contributions to their communities. It can also provide a platform for the voices and perspectives of Ndebele women to be heard and recognized.

Furthermore, Ndebele art, particularly beadwork and mural painting, has a long history of being passed down through generations of women. The skills and techniques used in Ndebele art are often taught by older women to younger generations, serving as a way of preserving and passing on cultural traditions and knowledge.

In contemporary times, the representation of Ndebele women in art has also become a way of challenging stereotypes and promoting greater visibility and representation of African women in art and popular culture. By showcasing the beauty, strength, and cultural richness of Ndebele women, Ndebele art can contribute to greater cultural understanding and appreciation.

In Ndebele culture, carrying objects on the head is a practical and common practice, particularly among women. It is a skill that is learned and mastered from a young age and is used to transport items such as water, firewood, or crops.

In addition to its practical significance, the depiction of women carrying objects on their heads in Ndebele artwork can also hold symbolic meaning. The act of carrying objects on the head is seen as a display of strength, grace, and balance. It is believed that a woman who can carry heavy objects on her head with ease and grace is a sign of physical and mental strength.

Furthermore, in Ndebele culture, women are often seen as the backbone of the family and the community. They are responsible for caring for their families, maintaining the home, and working in the fields. The depiction of women carrying objects on their heads in Ndebele artwork can symbolize the important role that women play in their families and communities.

When faces are incorporated into Ndebele geometric art, they can hold different meanings depending on the specific design and context. For example, a face with closed eyes may represent rest, meditation, or introspection. A face with exaggerated features, such as large eyes or a prominent nose, may represent different qualities, such as wisdom or beauty.

This artwork depicts both those sides and associated qualities.

In Ndebele culture, the eye is a powerful symbol that holds both cultural and spiritual significance. The eye is often depicted in Ndebele art and craft, such as beadwork, painting, and even in the design of traditional attire.

One of the most prominent uses of the eye symbol in Ndebele culture is in the design of the isipho or headrest. The isipho is traditionally used to protect elaborate hairstyles during sleep and is adorned with intricate patterns that often feature stylized eyes. These eyes are believed to protect the sleeper from bad dreams or evil spirits.

The eye symbol is also associated with the concept of foresight and insight. In Ndebele culture, it is believed that those who possess great insight and knowledge have “sharp eyes” that can see beyond what is visible to others. This is reflected in the design of certain traditional garments, such as the isidwaba, which is a skirt that features a triangular design that symbolizes the sharpness of one’s vision and insight.

The eye symbol in Ndebele culture represents protection, foresight, and insight. It is a powerful symbol that reflects the spiritual and cultural beliefs of the Ndebele people.

In Ndebele culture, women’s headwraps, called “iqhiya” or “isicholo”, are much more than a simple piece of cloth to cover the head. They hold significant cultural and symbolic meaning.

Firstly, headwraps are a symbol of respect and modesty. Women are expected to cover their heads in the presence of elders, especially men, as a sign of respect. Additionally, headwraps are worn by married women as a sign of their status, indicating that they are taken and not available for marriage.

Secondly, the design and color of the headwrap also hold meaning. Ndebele headwraps are often brightly colored and feature intricate geometric patterns, which are a symbol of creativity, beauty, and pride in one’s cultural heritage. Each pattern has a specific meaning, such as the “u mazokhe” pattern, which represents the path of the sun or the “ndlambe” pattern, which represents the stomach of a goat and is associated with fertility and prosperity.

The wearing of headwraps is an important aspect of Ndebele culture that reflects both respect for tradition and pride in one’s identity.

The X symbol represents various meanings in Ndebele culture, such as unity, connection, and interdependence. The crossing lines of the X symbol are believed to represent the coming together of different paths and the creation of a new path. This symbolism reflects the importance of community and working together in Ndebele culture.

In addition to its cultural significance, the X symbol is also admired for its aesthetic appeal in Ndebele beadwork. The X pattern is often used in combination with other traditional Ndebele patterns, such as triangles, diamonds, and zigzags, to create intricate and beautiful designs.