Adam and Eve 1986

John Muafangejo's linocut, *Adam and Eve*, presents us with a fascinating blend of biblical narrative and indigenous African symbolism. At its heart, the figures of Adam and Eve stand within a circle, surrounded by the lush flora and fauna of the Garden of Eden. The serpent, a classic symbol of temptation and knowledge, winds its way between them, but here it appears almost as a mediator, a figure of transformation rather than pure evil. This echoes ancient symbols of snakes as healers, connecting to earth energies. Above, we see faces reminiscent of ancestral figures, observing this primal scene. The image resonates with similar themes found in other creation myths across cultures. The psychological weight of this scene—the awakening of consciousness, the loss of innocence—is a powerful force engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. This moment has been endlessly reinterpreted, each time reflecting the cultural anxieties and aspirations of the age. This biblical story takes on a unique resonance in a modern African context.