The artwork titled “Black Matriarch,” created by Clementine Hunter around 1970, stands as a notable piece within the realms of Folk art and Outsider art. Executed using oil paint, this portrait measures 60.96 by 41.91 centimeters. Hunter’s artistic endeavor reflects both her distinct style and her interpretation of subject matter, contributing significantly to these influential art movements.
In the artwork, we are presented with a striking portrait characterized by a prominent silhouette of a figure set against a muted background. The silhouette, rendered in a stark black, contrasts vividly with the surrounding lighter tones. The figure wears a colorful head wrap, exhibiting a pattern composed of bright orange, green, and black squares. This headpiece is further enhanced by a border of small, multicolored dots, adding a decorative and vibrant detail. The silhouette’s robe, painted in a cool blue hue, is adorned with an additional embellishment — a circular floral-like emblem placed near the figure’s shoulder area. The combination of striking colors and simple, yet expressive forms, imbues the artwork with a sense of dignity and cultural resonance.
