Mozambique Island

Practically unknown, and yet one of the most fascinating destinations I have ever visited is Ihla de Moçambique. This small island is a long way from anywhere, in the wild and remote north of  Mozambique. I arrived by bicycle.

 Once the capital of Portuguese East Africa, the north half the island is Stonetown, crumbling colonial relics. While the southern half where the stone was quarried, is now densely populated with thatched huts. In places there is the Portuguese black and white limestone paving, in wave patterns just like Copacabana.

I fell in love with the place, and spent nearly a month there. Overwhelmed with a desire to paint but without any materials, I spent a lot of time sketching and of course taking photos. The turquoise sea, the pastel coloured colonial architecture, all drenched in sunshine. And the beautiful locals, the most colourful of all!

 I was fortunate enough to be there for the island’s annual festival, that involved a great procession, a lot of drumming, a bike race and getting my face painted with the traditional white 'musiiro' paste.

 To see which of my prints for sale were taken on the island click here.