Self Portrait Bobiri Butterfly Sanctuary
2003
11in X 16in
Oak wood, Acrylic, plastic
220K



Pandwe’s work titled *Bobiri Butterfly Sanctuary* draws heavily from her experiences near Kumasi in Central Ghana. This sanctuary, teeming with vibrant life, serves as a metaphorical backdrop for the piece, celebrating the beauty and resilience found in nature. The colors chosen—earthy greens, passionate reds, bold blacks, and shimmering golds—not only reflect the Ghanaian flag but also convey deeper meanings tied to the land itself: its fertility, sacrifices, unity, and wealth. By incorporating these hues, Pandwe captures the rich tapestry of Ghanaian culture and heritage, where diversity flourishes alongside strength.
The sanctuary, home to 1,500 known butterfly species and an estimated 20,000 moth species, provides a poignant representation of transformation and metamorphosis. This theme resonates deeply within the artwork, mirroring the symmetries found in nature and the metamorphic stages of personal and artistic growth. The juxtaposition of durability and delicacy in Pandwe’s piece echoes the fragility and resilience inherent in the natural world. Furthermore, her time immersed in the vibrant landscapes of Ghana informed the nuanced layers of her artistic approach, blending cultural motifs with reflections of her transformative journey.
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