Artwork Overview

Title : Fullness of Joy

Artist : Natalie Fay Naidoo

Medium : Acrylic Paint on Canvas

Dimensions : Length 91cm height 75.5cm width 4cm

Materials : High quality paint on Premium canvas

Country of origin : South Africa

Year of creation : 2024

Artistic Vision:
This piece was inspired by the old master painting The Swing by Jean Honoré Fragonard. I chose to highlight Africa, incorporating traditional African colours and prints into parts of this painting. My intention was to emphasise the joy in life, particularly during marriage. The belly laughs, childlike moments—like playing on a swing—and the peace of nature surrounding us in life are daily realities we often take for granted. I also wanted to spark curiosity about the spiritual world, which many overlook. Through the angels depicted and the serenity radiating from the painting, I invite viewers to reflect on the presence of spirit beings.

Technique:
I used a cotton canvas primed with acrylic triple gesso. For this vibrant and rich painting, I worked with acrylic paints and employed a layering technique, starting with deeper tones to create depth and a beautiful underpainting blend. This piece is a fusion of realism and idealism, combining the natural and spiritual worlds in one scene. The realistic figures and elements are portrayed with deep, rich, bright colours, while the heavenly beings are rendered in cream, glowing shades using an impressionist style.

Significance and Inspiration:
The concept of joy in marriage has become distant in many people’s lives as the world shifts its perspective on love. To me, love is defined by one word: “Sacrifice.” Moments of joy often stem from sacrifice—laying yourself down for another and giving up your opinions, desires, and control for the ones you love. This painting depicts a couple in love, filled with joy, but also hints at a deeper story. It may represent a journey of pain, suffering, and perseverance before reaching this moment of Fullness of Joy.

Perfect for Any Space:
This piece is ideal for living rooms, workspaces, restaurants, or spaces with themes of African culture and marriage. It is also suitable for churches or public spaces, creating inviting, joyful environments for all.

Why Choose “Fullness of Joy”?

Creative Expression:
This artwork beautifully captures and expresses joy, igniting similar emotions in viewers. In moments of sadness, the painting serves as a reminder of hope and laughter, evoking memories of pure joy in the viewer’s own life. Who wouldn’t want to be reminded of life’s best moments?

African Essence:
There’s something undeniably special about Africa, and the world recognizes it. Whether you are from Africa or another continent, this painting captures the essence of Africa’s grounded, wholesome beauty. The red attire and laughter of the central figure symbolize the heart and spirit of Africa.

Investment:
This piece resonates with people of all races, ages, and walks of life. With African art gaining global recognition, this painting would hold immense value in the right hands.