Burden of grace

Artwork story

“Burden of Grace” merges traditional artistry with modern technology to honor the Ozoro Isoko women’s enduring spirit. Created with soft pastel on prime chipboard paper, it captures the paradox of grace—both a blessing and a weight carried with quiet strength. Through Artivive AR, the pot overflows with rushing water, symbolizing abundance, healing, and resilience—a tribute to womanhood, renewal, and the beauty of carrying life’s burdens with dignity.

“Burden of Grace” was inspired by the women of Ozoro in Isoko land, whose daily strength and quiet dignity have always moved me. I grew up watching them carry heavy pots of water and farm produce under the burning sun, with babies tied to their backs. Despite the hardship, there was an elegance in their movement—a grace born from resilience and love. That enduring image became the heartbeat of this piece. It speaks to the paradox of grace—how it can be both a blessing and a burden, yet still carried with honor.

The artwork explores themes of endurance, womanhood, and cultural identity. Using soft pastel on prime chipboard paper, I layered tones and textures to express both fragility and strength. Every stroke was intentional—building warmth, emotion, and depth that echo the spirit of Isoko women. The creative process felt sacred, almost like channeling their energy onto the surface.

Through Artivive’s augmented reality, the piece comes alive—the pot overflows with rushing water, symbolizing abundance, healing, and renewal. This transformation represents how labor turns into legacy, and how pain gives birth to beauty. “Burden of Grace” is more than an artwork; it is a tribute to African womanhood, resilience, and the power of grace that endures through generations, reminding us that even in struggle, there is profound beauty and strength.