"Joséphine Baker" is a vibrant and dynamic representation of the music-hall icon of the same name. Created using the gouache on white cardboard technique, this 51x51 cm piece pays tribute to the famous artist.
The choice of ivory background and bright red blocks creates a bold, captivating composition, in keeping with Josephine Baker's flamboyant personality. In the center, her face is depicted in the style of the Roaring Twenties, surrounded by portraits showing her dancing with her famous banana belt and twirling with grace. Her initials are discreetly inscribed in the top right-hand corner of the canvas, while at the bottom, the faces of ethnically diverse children recall the artist's commitment to anti-racism. Felines are also present, in a nod to her pets.
This captivating work, rich in detail, perfectly reflects Josephine Baker's unique heritage and my deep admiration for her. My parents and I lived at the foot of the Château des Milandes This is a silver-halide photographic print with a lustrous finish and a fine-grained pebble texture.
