Jahni Wasserfall

South Africa

Visiting China, and more specifically Zhejiang Province in the east part of the country, as part of the exchange programs for African and Chinese artists in 2014, has been both an honor and privilege. This opportunity inspired and enriched me on so many levels - not only as an artist. It reconfirmed to me that art has life-changing powers that can cross cultures and boundaries, touching both the heart and soul and stimulating the mind.

Not being able to read or understand the language can make one feel a little lost. So I looked at the importance of words and how they become merely "visually appealing imagery" if not understood correctly. This got me to decide on a few words to be repeated in all my artworks in a way that could remind people of traditional Chinese art. This also loads the work with deeper meaning and intent. The words that came up - both as representative of my own personal experience of China, and my good wishes for the country - were hope, love, light, peace and tranquility.

I am going back to South Africa with a better understanding and empathy for the Chinese nation and its hopes and aspirations. China is growing at a fast pace and is embracing and encouraging art in everyday life!