"In this portrait I thought about the image of the black female in western art and what it would mean placing an African woman in the realm of mainstream art history. I pondered the historical representation of Black women in Western art and sought to disrupt this narrative by positioning an African woman within the canon of mainstream art history. The garland of flowers she wears is a deliberate nod to specific art periods, while the fabric she is adorned in contributes to the rich tapestry of this unfolding story. By refusing to conform to traditional portrayals, I aim to challenge perceptions and celebrate the multifaceted beauty of the African woman."

- Tamary Kudita