Monna ke Nku…

Man is a sheep; he cries within. In Sepedi, the saying “Monna ke nku, o llela teng” reflects the expectation that men endure their pain in silence. Over time, this can discourage emotional vulnerability and make asking for help seem like a weakness. Through this work, I look beyond the tears to explore what happens before the cry. Depicting an adult sheep on the rocks alongside two descending lambs, I reflect on the importance of early guidance, emotional support, and the experiences that shape us as we grow. When emotional wounds remain unaddressed, they may follow men into adulthood, affecting their relationships and influencing how they respond to pain. Rather than questioning why men cry in silence alone, I ask whether they were ever given the space to express themselves. This work invites us to reconsider strength, challenge inherited expectations, and recognise the importance of nurturing emotionally aware generations. Perhaps we should learn to care for the boy before.

R 5,600 · For Sale