I invite you to view a collection of works portraying the beauty and vitality of the Rwandan people amidst the brokenness of a country ravaged by genocide. In 1994 as a result of systematic ethnic cleansing, approximately one million Rwandans were brutally slaughtered in just 100 days. Today the scars remain, yet there is hope for Rwanda. These paintings are my reflections of hope.
"Empty Cup"
This was the first painting I created upon returning from the breathtaking country of Rwanda. I was still reeling from a powerful first encounter with the third world. "Empty Cup" is my portrayal of a little Rwandan princess walking barefoot through the dirt clay streets of Kigali, one of the millions of children living there in total poverty. Her tattered dress is a poignant symbol of the harsh disparity that exists between beauty and brokenness.
"A Mother's Love"
This portrait of a Rwandan mother and child conveys the deep bond they share. Her protective gaze reveals the burden this mother bears to see her son grow up healthy and safe in the midst of a country stained by violence. She is a heroic example of the dignity of humanity, and the steadfast nature of "A Mother's Love".
"Looking Up"
The upward gaze of this self assured young boy captures the hopefulness of a new day for Rwanda. He will emerge among the next generation of children with an opportunity to leave the past behind. With the proper education and care he can walk forward into a bright future filled with joy and laughter.
"Evelyn"
My wife and I met this beguiling young beauty while serving with World Relief, deep in the northern hills of Rwanda. Seven majestic volcanoes encircled us beyond the Congolese border as we worked alongside Evelyn and the local community to build a clay brick house for one of their elderly. Crowned with banana leaves, she is a stunning picture of grace and royalty.
"No More Tears"
The young girl in this painting was living with her mother and grandmother when I met them. Her grandmother is one of the many women who was systematically victimized during the genocide by known AIDS carriers, a strategy of war that caused the virus to spread dramatically among women in Rwanda as a result. I created this portrait to plead the case for children around the world. Love, safety and provision. These are gifts that all children deserve, regardless of where they live- be it Rwanda, Haiti, New Orleans or your own hometown.
"Brothers"
I met these two charming boys while visiting the village of Ruhengeri, tucked away in the northern hills of Rwanda. This lush, beautiful tourist destination is best known for the mighty silverback gorillas that live in the foothills of the mountains nearby. I was serving with World Relief, along with a group of young adults from our church. These two brothers lingered around the worksite as we came alongside members of the local community to build a clay brick house for one of their elderly. I remember distinctly how the boys were so eager to help by carrying the large clay bricks to us throughout the day. They were such a vivid example of a willingness to carry each other’s burdens. As I look at the young boy being carried upon the back of his older brother, I am reminded of this very need to carry each other’s burdens.
