An original oil painting by Dezireë Smith – African Woman ‘Imke‘. 

Imke is a striking meditation on poise, identity, and quiet authority. Seated in profile against a bold, glowing field of red, Imke gazes forward with calm intention—her posture relaxed, yet resolute. Her richly patterned headwrap becomes a visual language of heritage and individuality, alive with symbolic motifs and vibrant colour. The sculptural neck rings, layered bangles, and graphic textiles speak to adornment as both tradition and self-expression.

Soft greens and warm earth tones balance the intensity of the background, creating a sense of harmony between strength and grace. The original painting hangs in a suite at The Silo Hotel in Cape Town, where Imke’s presence feels both intimate and iconic—an embodiment of modern African elegance within a contemporary luxury space.

Imke invites us to slow down and notice the beauty of composure, cultural pride, and inner stillness.

Reproductions of Imke are available here as wearable art, handbags and accessories, art prints and beautiful homeware.