Bongani Mabulu BM2606

Bongani Mabulu
Mixed Media on Canvas
Diptych 120cm x 80cm x 2
2026

This piece symbolizes an ancient way of communicating with our ancestors as black people also known as Ukuphahla. This is a sacred act or a traditional way/portal to communicate with our ancestors (Umsamo)

The fabrics represents different spiritual cloths(Amabhayi) and it is worn by Ithwasana as they undergo through Intwaso (Initiation process)
The bag (Isikhwama) symbolizes the gifts and talents as individuals . It carries ancient bones (from different animals), cowries and shells (from the ocean) to connect with different spirits and heal people.

Spear symbolizes protection and strength to defeat enemies.
The grass mat (Ikhuko) represents the earth-Mother nature (Umhlaba)
Red wool represents the blood of our loved ones who lost their lives during wars, accidents and shootings.
Black wool symbolizes our skin color as black people.
White wool represents purity, peace, blessing, luck and prosperity.
Calabash is used to keep African plant based medicines.

Ishoba (cow tail) used for cleansing and chasing away the evil spirits.

Blue beads symbolizes the connection with water spirits (Ocean, river and waterfall)

Cowries symbolizes the wealth, luck and abundance.