Lulu Phezulu: Leigh Voigt’s African Album

Lulu Phezulu: Leigh Voigt’s African Album is a richly illustrated and deeply personal celebration of Africa through the eyes of acclaimed South African artist Leigh Voigt. First published in 1999 as a high-quality hardcover edition by Struik, this book blends evocative storytelling with Voigt’s distinctive watercolours to form a vibrant visual journal of life in the African bush and rural heartlands.

The title refers to Voigt’s alter ego, Lulu Phezulu, a spirited observer who journeys through the highlands and plains, recording her encounters, impressions, and reflections. Each page is infused with warmth, humour, and a profound connection to the land and its people. Voigt’s prose dances between affectionate observation and wry commentary, bringing to life the characters she meets and the cultural traditions she witnesses with a natural storyteller’s flair.

Interwoven with her narrative are stunning full-colour paintings and sketches that capture the beauty, rhythm, and soul of Africa—from dusty village scenes and sprawling landscapes to intimate portraits of animals and people. Voigt’s artistic style is lively and expressive, perfectly complementing the tone of her writing and offering readers a sensory experience that is both nostalgic and enlightening.

Lulu Phezulu is not just an art book—it is a heartfelt memoir, a travelogue, and an artistic tribute to a vanishing way of life. Whether placed on a coffee table or treasured as part of a personal collection, this book remains a timeless ode to Africa’s wild charm and enduring spirit.