Granny’s Overwhelmed
I received a shipment of wall hangings from KwaZulu Natal just before Christmas. This one is made by Sheila Msimbi and depicts a Grandmother with many grandchildren to look after: they're jumping, climbing and hiding from her. This small tapestry illustrates exactly why the Grandmother-to-Grandmothers Campaign was founded: to support these un-sung heros who care for the millions of HIV/AIDS orphans. While the bright colors and folk art deisgn of this tapesty is joyful, the truth is that Grandmothers are truly overwhelmed by poverty, ill health and so many mouths to feed.
Granny's Overwhelmed 12" x 14.5" Hand embroidery, appliqué, cotton.
Sheila supports 12 people with her stitchery.
What a wonderful way to celebrate grandmothers and their unsung support of their families
thanks for writing Rhoda – I love working with these African embroideries. I’m off to spend 6 weeks visiting women’s groups all over S.Africa.
Overwhelmed is correct.This quilt illustrating a Grannie’s unconditional love and support of her grandchildren is perfect in it’s representation of the Grandmother-To-Grandmothers campaign. Thanks for sharing, it is truly beautiful.
Hi Annette. The situation for Grandmothers in Africa
is beyond what we can imagine. I love these textiles for the simple clear way they tell their story, their reality. thanks for writing.