Prints were central to John Muafangejo's art. Using bold black-and-white linocuts, he combined images and text to tell stories of Namibian life, history, and faith.
In Spite of Present Difficulties
This artwork inspired a global art project and was used to celebrate Nelson Mandela, reflecting themes of resilience and unity during periods of struggle like the fight for Namibian independence and the anti-apartheid movement. Its universal message of staying optimistic amidst challenges made it relevant to contemporary struggles for justice and equality.
This linocut reflects one of Muafangejo's recurring themes: family and community. The print depicts a mother with her child, a subject that appears often in his work as part of his focus on everyday Namibian life. Like many of his pieces, it combines simple forms with bold contrasts to convey both intimacy and strength.
This work is divided into two parts. On the right, a clean-shaven Judas is shown embracing Jesus while two bearded figures, with weapons in their hands and sheathed swords, look on. Above are words from Luke's Gospel (22:48). On the left Judas is shown hanging from a tree: three 1-rand notes, the price of betrayal, can be seen below the foliage. The words on this side are non-biblical.