"Origin" - A Reflection of Kenya and the Soul of Africa

"Origin" - A Reflection of Kenya and the Soul of Africa

Within the vivid palette of my art, "Origin" holds a treasured spot, symbolizing not just my adoration for Africa's spirit but also my Kenyan roots. This painting, rich in color and emotion, is an ode to the continent where humanity's story began and to the country that keeps me rooted to my heritage.

“Origin” | Acrylic Paint on 36”x 48” Canvas | Completed 02/02/2020

Kenya: The Beating Heart of Africa

Kenya, my homeland, is painted into the very fibers of "Origin." Its landscapes and resilient cultures influence the contours and hues of this artwork. As a Kenyan, the painting is a reflection of the deep connection I feel to my country, a place that, much like the Africa it represents, is a tapestry of past, present, and future intertwined.

The Earth's Canvas

Through the art of farming in Kenya, my hands touch the soil that has nourished generations. It's a daily act of painting the Earth, sowing seeds that grow into the very sustenance of life. This physical and spiritual act keeps me tethered to Kenya, much like "Origin" is anchored in the essence of Africa.

A Dialogue of Identity and Belonging

"Origin" invites viewers into a dialogue about identity and belonging. It challenges each of us to consider our roots and the bonds we share with our homeland. For my readers from across the globe, let this painting be a reminder of home, no matter where your journey takes you.

I pose to you, how do the places you call home shape your identity? How does your heritage, like my Kenyan roots, influence your view of the world?

As we share in this dialogue, "Origin" stands as a testament to the enduring strength and beauty of Africa, and Kenya's vital role in the narrative of our shared humanity. It's not just one of my favorite pieces; it is the story of my connection to a land that is both ancient and ever-evolving.

Through this narrative, "Origin" becomes more than a painting; it is a symbol of the artist's Kenyan heritage, the act of farming that connects them to their land, and the broader, universal search for identity and belonging that we all share.

Origin - February 2020

Creativity is not a competition.
— Autumn Sky Hall
Origin. Acrylic Painting on 36”x 48” Canvas. Completed February 2020

Origin. Acrylic Painting on 36”x 48” Canvas. Completed February 2020

Origin is one of my personal favorites. My neighbor Dona C. Mann and I decided to exchange original works, and this was my contribution to their collection of art. I therefore asked Donna to write a few lines of her thoughts on the painting. See her thoughts below:

Having taught English, literacture and social studies most of my thirty years, I felt most engaging when focusing on the origins of civilization.

The stories of the Fertile Crescent and African Villages fascinated me then as they do even more so today. IN order to model my teacher/student creed, “I’ll never ask you to do anything I would not do,” I conducted my own action research research project on elephants.

My love for them and intrigue with their societal behaviors instilled a great respect after that experience. Imagine how exciting I was to move next door to an amazing family who sponsor elephants in their native Kenya.

When Zikki presented the surprise painting to me, my first reaction was, “Origin of the Species.” His simple reply? “I named this work Origin.”

Whenever I look at this piece of art, I am blessed that we share such an amazing connection with the country of Kenya and the ever evolving African Continent.
— Dona C. Mann

When I asked Dona, what song comes to mind when you look at the painting, she said, “Circle of Life.”

In the circle of life
It’s the wheel of fortune
It’s the leap of faith
It’s the band of hope
’Til we find our place
On the path unwinding
In the circle, the circle of life
— Circle of Life

Thank you Donna.