An exhibition of artworks inspired by Nelson Mandela is to go ahead in London despite ongoing fears about his failing health.
The We Love Mandela show will be held at South Africa House - for many years the scene of free Mandela protests in Trafalgar Square - and include a reproduction of British painter Richard Stone’s portrait of the former ANC leader and a range of works, including cartoons, by South African artists.
It has been previously seen in South Africa where it was created by Alan Demby, chairman of the South African Gold Coin Exchange which mints gold Mandela medallions to raise funds for the former presidents’ foundation, and art dealer Natalie Knight - although the works are not for sale.
It is being brought to London now in the run-up to the 20th anniversary in 2014 of the ending of apartheid.
Organisers said the Nelson Mandela Foundation wanted them to go ahead despite his poor health.
Natalie Knight said: “Some of these artists were severely disadvantaged during the apartheid era and were only able to find fulfilment of their talent after the release of Mandela and the birth of a democratic South Africa in 1994. Others actively used resistance art in the fight against apartheid.”
Mr Demby said: “He was person for a century. We want to take Mandela’s message of hope and peace around the world through art and expose millions of people to it.”
Richard Stone, whose original painting of Mandela made £400,000 for his charities when sold in 2008, said he had been struck by the leader’s “enormous presence” when he sat for him. “It’s exciting that work that has been inspired by this great man is being brought together.”
The exhibition, sponsored by Nedbank Private Wealth, is free but discretionary donations will be accepted for the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund UK. The exhibition runs from October 3 to 16. www.welovemandela.com
