A Slave who Imagined being Free

"A Slave who Imagined being Free" is a poignant representation of the global refugee crisis and the struggles encountered by immigrants seeking asylum in South Africa. The drawing is based on a photograph taken during the 2007 xenophobic attacks in South Africa, where two men are waiting in line while a third tries to climb over an invisible barrier, symbolizing the arbitrary nature of borders and the limitations they impose on those seeking a better life.

The title of the artwork reflects the idea that freedom is a state of mind rather than a physical destination. Ilunga believes that true freedom is achieved through a shift in perception and the willingness to imagine a better future, rather than through sacrifice or exchange. Through her art, Ilunga aims to raise awareness of the challenges faced by refugees and immigrants around the world, while also promoting empathy and understanding.