The artwork “Campfire Girls,” created by Kerry James Marshall in 1995, is an acrylic and collage piece that belongs to the Expressionist movement. The artwork is figurative in genre, featuring dimensions of 261.6 x 289.6 cm.
The composition presents a vivid scene featuring two figures draped in patterned blankets, sitting beside a campfire within a lush, green setting. Above them, a garland displays individually colored letters forming the phrase “HERE I AM.” To the right, a sizable tent with a red cross is prominently placed, suggesting a sense of refuge or medical aid. The background is intricate with depictions of trees, a picket fence, and other residential elements, blending everyday life with expressive elements that evoke deeper narratives. Central to the scene, the campfire emits swirling smoke and emits a sense of warmth and comfort, highlighted by vibrant, stylized flames. Marshall’s use of collage brings additional texture and dimensionality to the scene, alluding to themes of identity, community, and presence within a shared space.
