The artwork titled ““The Beautyful Ones” Series #9” was created by Njideka Akunyili Crosby in 2018. It belongs to the postcolonial art movement and is categorized within the portrait genre.
The artwork presents a vivid and complex scene featuring three individuals in an interior setting. The background is detailed with various elements, including books, shelves, electronic appliances, and a television displaying a portrait. The central figure is holding a child, while another child stands to their left. The composition is intricate, employing a collage technique with layered imagery that fuses personal and historical narratives. The figures are rendered with a high level of realism, contrasting with the more abstract and patterned backdrop, creating a dynamic interplay between the subjects and their environment. The artwork reflects a deep engagement with themes of identity, memory, and cultural heritage.