Ntombizodwa Somlayi

Artist Name:Ntombizodwa Somlayi
Nationality:
Year of death:2013
Artist information:

Ntombizodwa Somlayi was a member of the Bambanani Women’s Group, a collective of individuals living with HIV/AIDS in Cape Town who used art to share their personal stories. Through her Body Map, she reflected on resilience shaped by hardship, including a serious car accident and her HIV diagnosis, guided by her belief to “always be prepared” for life’s challenges. She portrayed herself as “bread,” symbolising her role as a caregiver and provider for her family, especially her children. Her work reveals both vulnerability and strength, capturing her journey as a mother living with HIV. Ntombizodwa passed away in 2013 from cerebral meningitis, leaving behind two sons.

Ntombizodwa Somlayi
Body map 03
CCAC# 0369