SOUTH AFRICA - Yolanda Prinsloo (b.1968) was born in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, and graduated from the University of Stellenbosch with a degree in painting and art history. A self-searching artist, Yolanda concentrates on topics near and dear to her heart like cultural equality, societal harmony and individuality. Her subjects are people, customs, and memories. As a biracial woman, she faced many injustices during apartheid in South Africa. The Birth of a South African Venus is an ode to Saartjie Baartman, seen in three manifestations emanating from a protea, South Africa’s national flower. Saartjie a Khoi Khoi woman whose body differed greatly from the western concept of beauty, was promised wealth and fame if she would go to Europe in 1810 and stand nude on display in various exhibits. People poked, prodded and made disparaging remarks about her. Saartjie died at age 26, due to drastic climactic and diet change in Europe, and her body parts were preserved at the Musee de l’Homme in Paris. The South African Government was finally allowed to bring her remains home a few years ago, where she was buried with dignity. Yolanda poignantly states, “She was a 'freak show' in Europe, but to us she is beautiful, and we are proud of her.” Frida and I explores Yolanda’s search for identity. “I have been told that I look like Frida Khalo. I am not much like her, except for the fact that we are both of mixed heritage. Being biracial has its advantages and disadvantages. I can experience different cultures and take them as my own yet, at the same time, I don't seem to be able to fit in completely.” This diptych painting shows not only facial similarities but similar items each found important to collect. African Welcome proclaims that no matter where you go or who you visit in Africa, you will be always be offered a drink of friendship. The doll represents a talismanic numen of the power or knowledge we already possess to create a new world of peace and love around us.