Jackson Hlungwani (1923–2010) was a South African artist, best known for his deeply spiritual and visionary works that intricately blend Christian and African traditional themes. His artistry extends into wood sculptures and installations, with his pieces often reflecting his profound religious experiences and beliefs. Hlungwani's approach to his work was deeply personal, seeing his artistic creation as an extension of his spiritual practice.

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One of his most significant works is the "New Jerusalem," an outdoor sculpture garden and sacred site that he envisioned and began constructing in the late 1980s in Mbhokota, near Elim in Limpopo province. This site includes numerous sculptural pieces carved from indigenous wood, each imbued with religious significance, combining Christian iconography with African symbology. This project reflects Hlungwani's vision of creating a physical space that embodies his spiritual journey and theological insights.

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Hlungwani was largely self-taught, drawing inspiration from his own deeply felt spiritual revelations, which he believed were direct communications from God. His work transcends mere religious art by creating a unique dialogue between his personal visions and broader cultural and spiritual traditions. This approach resulted in a body of work that is both deeply personal and universally resonant, marked by a distinctive style that blends the figurative with the abstract, the earthly with the divine.

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His contribution to South African art is immense, not only in terms of the originality and depth of his work but also in how his life and artistry reflect the complex interplay of cultural identity, spirituality, and creativity. Jackson Hlungwani's legacy continues to inspire and influence artists and observers, embodying a unique fusion of art and spirituality that transcends traditional boundaries​​.

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