In honour of Mandela Day, we are thrilled to announce an exciting collaboration with the incredibly talented Donovan Julius, a local artist based in Suurbraak in the Overberg municipalities. Donovan is creating a special art piece for Ari’s Cancer Foundation in honour of Nelson Mandela. All proceeds from this special initiative will go towards Ari’s Cancer Foundation’s ongoing support for young cancer patients at Tygerberg Hospital, a project we’ve been dedicated to since 2019.

About the Artist

Donovan Julius, born in Robertson, has lived in the small, unique village of Suurbraak, Western Cape, since he was just eight months old. A passionate, self-taught artist, Donovan works primarily in acrylics with a focus on portraiture. His art is a powerful message to his Khoisan people, encouraging them to stand up and take pride in their ancestry and culture.

Donovan’s use of vibrant and bold colours, especially his unconventional flesh tones, allows viewers of all races to see beyond skin colour and appreciate the inherent beauty of humanity. His striking portraits, often featuring symbolic icons, make clear statements about his subjects, bringing out the inner humanity of each character.

Supporting Young Cancer Patients

Over the last five years, our foundation has provided essential items such as pain medication, palliative care needs, oxygen for home use, and wheelchairs to Tygerberg Hospital. Recently, we have also supplied lines used in bone marrow transplants, which are in short supply and often beyond the hospital’s budget. Additionally, we support patients and their parents who come from outside of Cape Town and stay in the Care Centre, providing them with food and other necessities.

Looking ahead, we are planning to raise funds to upgrade the Care Centre, creating a more child-friendly environment. We also aim to equip the kitchen with basic appliances and enhance the lounge with an ‘Ari Booth’ that will include a games console, computer, books, and games, making the space more enjoyable and supportive for young patients.

How to Donate

To support this cause, please visit our website https://www.ariscancerfoundation.org/donation/  or make a direct bank transfer using the following details:

Aris Cancer Foundation

Standard Bank

Account Number: 276 190 211

Branch: Constantia

Branch Code: 025309

Reference: Tygerberg

Join us in celebrating Mandela Day by supporting this unique blend of art and hope, and help us make a difference in the lives of young cancer patients.