Purchase a special limited edition print of this original portrait of LEMN SISSAY and help raise funds for the Gold from the Stone Foundation.

Experience this exclusive portrait of the acclaimed poet Lemn Sissay—a tribute that celebrates his Ethiopian roots, his personal journey and his book of poems “Let the light pour in”. Composed of 1,980 carefully arranged squares, this striking piece features traditional Ethiopian symbols of love, truth, strength, and forgiveness, with delicate details inspired by Lemn’s life and poetry. With every purchase, you support the Gold from the Stone Foundation, helping create brighter futures for young care leavers.

“Painted in oils on canvas it comprises of 1,980 squares. The illustrations painted in some of the squares, on Lemn’s face, resemble traditional Ethiopian symbols which represent love, truth, strength and forgiveness.

The white highlights in his eyes are in the shape of Ethiopia and the rays of light are credited to Lemn’s book of morning poems, ‘Let the light pour in’.

I was inspired to paint this portrait of Lemn Sissay after watching a TV documentary detailing his childhood journey from foster care, and children’s homes, to finding his birth mother, Yemarshet Sissay, who never wanted to give him up.

Throughout his early years he was named Norman, yet his mother had named her son Lemn, which translated into English is the word ‘Why’, hence the title of this painting.

The breakdown of dialogue in the care system and his quest to seek the truth; to discover his real name and true identity, has forged the person he has become today.

Now the dialogue has come full circle with his prolific poetry, ambassadorship and his continual support towards care leavers.

Proceeds from the reproduction of this portrait will go to the ‘Gold from the Stone Foundation’ to help the futures of children in care.”