Portrait of Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela
South Africa
Brought an End to Apartheid Rule

Nelson Mandela helped mobilize millions to end apartheid, South Africa’s official policy of racial segregation that oppressed the country’s black population. Mandela was regularly threatened and arrested, and eventually was sentenced to life in prison. During his 27 years in jail, Mandela became a symbol of resistance to apartheid. He was freed in 1990 after a sustained national and international campaign for his release. Four years later, he was elected the first black president of South Africa. Under Mandela’s leadership, South Africa’s first freely elected government focused on peacefully dismantling the legacy of white-minority rule by tackling poverty and inequality and fostering racial reconciliation. Mandela and his predecessor, F.W. de Klerk, shared the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993.

The Artist’s thoughts on painting this series- “The seven amazing individuals I will be “working with” have opened my eyes to so much and made me appreciate their courage. Because I have read many of their speeches, seen countless photographs, and watched significant video coverage of their work, I feel as though they are still alive. As I roll steadfastly into 2014 charged with the task of bringing these heroes to life with paint on canvas, it is my sincere hope that I will fully and beautifully capture their light and their spirit. My hopes and wishes for everyone else in my world and beyond, as they march into 2014, is that they can all find the spark and the courage to embark on their own missions − to accomplish, to achieve, to overcome, to effect change. Even if it is small and personal – such as “giving back” to those in need, or finding peace within, or being a better friend, neighbor or co-worker – as Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

About the Artist -

Painting since age six, Rossin’s has established an astonishing production capacity that enables him to keep his prices fair and reasonable. In addition to family portraiture, his clientele includes a wide range of world leaders in politics, business, science, history and the arts. His work can be found in various government institutions, museums and private collections around the world.

His four paintings in The Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery’s Permanent Collection in Washington DC are a testament to his extraordinary talent.