The Spirit of Comrades by Joseph Manana

Born in Escourt, KwaZulu-Natal, Joseph Manana has been creating art since the mid-1980s. Largely self-taught, he later completed a Fine Arts diploma at the Durban Institute of Technology in 2003, supported by the Tito Zungu Trust Fund.

His work is known for its painterly feel, sensitive use of light, and intricate detail that draws the viewer in. Shifting between rural and urban themes, his compositions often surprise with unexpected perspectives. The Tatham Art Gallery in Pietermaritzburg holds a significant collection of his work.

Commissioned by Woza Moya, The Spirit of Comrades captures the essence of this iconic day: endurance, camaraderie, the joy of supporters, and the celebration of our beautiful country, South Africa.