The 82-Year-Old Artist Who Can Only Write Her Name

Mural by Esther Mahlangu in Johannesburg

from Johannesburg, South Africa.

I was in high school the first time I saw the painted houses of the Ndebele people in a book. I was captivated by the colors and patterns, as well as by the women who painted them—their beadwork and jewelry.

I knew that they live in a region of South Africa that I won’t be visiting on this trip, so I was thrilled to see portions of Ndebele murals in Johannesburg. And then I found this video about Esther Mahlangu, who painted one of the murals I’d seen. The story of this 82 year old artist is so inspiring. Watch it. I promise you’ll feel buoyed by her strength and resilience!

And then consider your own creativity. How do you express it? What’s a new way you could try to express it? Connecting with your creativity will help you think more innovatively and could bring joy and happiness to your life!

Mural by Esther Mahlangu in Johannesburg
Mural by Esther Mahlangu in Johannesburg