“The Beautiful Ones,” created by renowned artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby in 2012, is a portrait that utilizes mixed media techniques. This artwork is a significant piece within the Postcolonial art movement.
The artwork features a dark-skinned individual with short hair and glasses. The figure is positioned against a backdrop that includes various images collaged together, creating a rich tapestry of cultural and historical references. The subject wears attire that blends with the collage, embedding them into the background, and reflecting an intricate and layered identity. The use of mixed media and collage techniques are prominent, with patterns and photographs overlapping to weave a complex narrative. The artwork resonates with themes of postcolonial identity and heritage, offering a profound exploration through its visual elements.