Against All Odds: George Pemba

George Milwa Mnyaluza Pemba is without doubt a great South African artist. Yet, until shortly before his death in 2001 when he was 89 years old, he was hardly recognised. He was born 2 April 1912 in Korsten, Port Elizabeth. His talent emerged early in his life and at 16 he won first prize in an art competition at the local agricultural show. Although he did teach for a while, art remained his driving passion. Pemba's beginnings as a painter occurred at a time and place where it was almost impossible for a young black man to succeed as an artist.

Rural and township life were his main sources of inspiration and his works became accurate reflections of the social and political conditions of his people. In this title Sarah Hudleston has not attempted academicism, but has instead, documented George Pemba's life in a style that reflects deeply her passion for an artist who influenced and inspired her own life. It is a testimony to a great man and a rich visual record of his inspired work.