- Measures 100 x 50 cm
- Mixed media artwork on canvas
- Complimentary UK local delivery
- Edges are textured with floral patterns, painted and do not need framing
- Please allow one week for local delivery
- Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity
This original now lives with a collector. If it speaks to you, join the Collectors Club at the bottom of this page to hear first about similar work and Jedidah's next print drop, or email info@onaiiart.com.
This original mermaid art painting honours Mwana Tau, a woman remembered in the oral traditions of the Swahili coast. Suspended beneath the water, she is portrayed with a quiet strength that brings depth and elegance to a space. The luminous finish and layered surface create a striking underwater painting for collectors drawn to meaningful art.
The Story behind Mwana Tau
Inspired by the oral history of Siyu on Pate Island, this underwater painting reflects the enduring presence of women within Swahili coastal society. Mwana Tau is remembered in local memory as a woman of quiet strength, representing the influence many women held through cultural stewardship, community, and resilience along the East African coast. She is shown moving with the current, her flowing fabrics and reflective expression suggesting both grace and inner resolve. Built as richly layered textured art, the piece combines metallic paint, delicate glitter spray, and genuine 24 carat gold leaf that catches the light as you move around it. By blending memory with contemporary mermaid art, the painting becomes a tribute to feminine strength carried quietly through generations.
To see more of Jedidah's African queens, visit the Out of Africa collection.
Jedidah enjoys researching queens from African history to find stories that resonate. Creating artwork inspired by these historical queens brings her joy, as it keeps their stories alive.
In this short video, Jedidah shares why she began painting mermaids: an idea that kept coming back to her, and the feeling that she had never seen a Black mermaid painted as beautiful. Watch Mwana Tau come to life, from the first pour of blue to the finished painting.
