About the Painting:

In ‘Study of Colleen’, the subject’s gaze is directed upward, suggesting not only resilience but an unyielding resolve. The textured brushstrokes that define her natural hair create a powerful contrast with the smoothness of her white shirt, symbolizing the duality between softness and strength. This juxtaposition echoes themes of identity and self-expression, particularly within the context of Black womanhood.

The portrait is grounded in a minimalist composition, allowing the subject’s quiet confidence to dominate the frame. Her poised demeanor and upward gaze evoke a sense of hope and forward momentum, capturing her in a moment of introspection and empowerment. The turquoise background, with its subtle variations in hue, serves to highlight her presence while offering a calm, serene backdrop that amplifies her strength.

The painting's lighting emphasizes the contours of her face and arms, inviting the viewer to linger on the subtleties of her expression. The shadows and highlights dance across the canvas, creating depth and dimension in a way that speaks to both the physical and emotional layers of the subject. Each detail, from the nuanced depiction of her skin to the crisp folds of her shirt, invites reflection on the complexities and grace of her lived experience.