In a vibrant celebration of South African Heritage, K-5 grade art students are delving into the life and inspiring work of contemporary artist Nelson Makamo. Makamo is internationally celebrated for his powerful, large-scale portraits of children, which he views as symbols of Africa's future and resilience. Born in Limpopo, South Africa, Makamo often uses a striking mixed-media approach, combining the serious, direct gaze of charcoal portraits with vibrant accents of color. His work has achieved global recognition, with pieces exhibited in major galleries and collected by figures like Oprah Winfrey. By studying his art, young students gain exposure to a leading global artistic voice and the rich cultural narratives of South Africa.