The artwork “Burn” by Kara Walker, created in 1998, is a significant representation within the Feminist Art movement and is categorized as figurative.
In the artwork, a black silhouette depicts a female figure enshrouded in flames, capturing a moment of intense emotion and drama. The detailed contours of the flames engulf the figure, adding a sense of urgency and turmoil. Above the figure, a swirling column of smoke rises into the air, conveying movement and a continuation of the scene beyond the immediate focus. The stark contrast between the solid black elements and the white background emphasizes the dramatic narrative and the emotional impact of the scene. Kara Walker’s use of silhouette technique in this piece evokes a historical and cultural dialogue, characteristic of her broader oeuvre.