This is a simple piece of artwork based off South Sudan’s national flag. Black represents the people of South Sudan; red represents the blood shed for the country’s independence; white represents peace attained after a long struggle for liberation; green represents the country's agriculture, natural wealth and land; blue represents the Nile River, a source of life for the country; finally, yellow represents the unity of the states, the hope and determination of South Sudanese people.

 

Unfortunately, with the civil war tearing the country apart, the hopeful light of the young country seems to have dimmed. I extended each of the colours in the painting’s background to emphasize the significance of what each colour represents for South Sudan, in particular yellow, as to me it encapsulates the children’s ambitions for their education paths and futures. Though very simplistic, I hope this piece reminds people of what the nation of South Sudan stands for and celebrates, it is a plea for a future where everyone has sufficient healthcare, education and services.