The Brothers

This painting was partly inspired by a boy named Godfrey and his brother who live in Newtown, Postmasburg. One day at the park during the Bible Club, I caught them in the perfect pose together with my camera. I thought it may be a good picture for something, some day... I'm so glad I'm able to use it sooner than what I had expected.

The second photo that was responsible for inspiring me was one that I took on an afternoon drive through Newtown with my husband. It was of two little boys playing soccer in the street. The sun was in the right position, casting long shadows. It was just a beautiful composition with dramatic light. I combined both photos to 'make' this painting.

I was taught that painting from photos really does influence the 'life' and energy of the painting. I agree. I do prefer painting live subjects as opposed to subjects from photos. But in the case of painting people and situations from the township, it is just not an option for me right now. Firstly, because I am white and a woman – it's just not safe. Secondly, people crowd around artists when they are out in the open and become an annoying distraction!

"The Brothers" is the second painting in the series "The Forgotten". Many children suffer neglect and troubled family lives in Newtown. Sadly, many of the adults are alcoholics in Newtown and spend their days (if and when they are not working) in a drunken stupor, unable to properly care or nuture their children. This results in the older children looking after the younger ones, even if they are a mere 3-4 years older than their siblings. They must entertain themselves and fend for themselves. They are the forgotten.

The Brothers
The Forgotten Series

700mm x 500mm x 50mm (Acrylic on Canvas)

Please note that this artwork has been sold.

All content and images copyright © Christy Tempies, 2017. All rights reserved.