
Portrait of a young black woman
In contemporary art, the alla prima technique stands out for its boldness and immediacy. Artists using this method apply paint directly onto the canvas in one sitting, often blending colors on the spot to create a sense of energy and spontaneity. This style, with its raw, unfiltered brushstrokes, is not just about capturing a likeness, but about embodying the spirit, emotion, and essence of the subject. For many artists, alla prima offers a powerful way to convey urgency and presence, an approach that perfectly aligns with the cultural narratives they aim to highlight.
One of the most profound subjects being explored through this technique is the strength, pride, and resilience of African women. Artists today are increasingly turning to the stories of these women, depicting them not just as figures of beauty but as symbols of empowerment, heritage, and cultural pride. Through art, they seek to challenge long-standing stereotypes and offer a more authentic, nuanced portrayal of African women—one that reflects their multifaceted identities and contributions.
The importance of representing strong African women in art cannot be overstated. For centuries, the stories of African women have been marginalized, their voices often sidelined in both historical records and popular culture. Yet, these women have consistently shown immense strength in the face of adversity. From their roles as leaders, innovators, and activists, to their deep connections to family, community, and tradition, African women’s contributions to society are both vast and indispensable. Art offers a powerful tool to bring these stories to the forefront, giving visibility to voices that have long been silenced.
In works that employ the alla prima technique, the emphasis is often on immediacy—capturing not just the physicality of the subject, but the energy and presence that emanates from them. The directness of the method complements the vitality of the subjects, allowing the artist to create works that feel alive with movement and emotion. This approach also reflects the urgency of the message: African women, through their heritage and resilience, represent a force that cannot be ignored.
Art that centers on African women also serves to highlight the importance of cultural pride and identity. The portrayal of women in traditional attire, adorned with cultural symbols or engaged in everyday acts of strength, speaks to a deep connection to one’s roots. These artworks celebrate the richness of African cultures, while also emphasizing the pride these women take in their heritage. In a world where African cultures have often been misrepresented or erased, art provides a platform to assert the power and beauty of these identities.
Moreover, such artistic endeavors are not just a reflection of the present but an assertion of agency in shaping the future. By portraying African women as complex, powerful individuals, artists contribute to a broader conversation about representation, equity, and the rewriting of history. Through the immediacy and boldness of the alla prima technique, these artists are able to create portraits that are not only visually striking but also carry with them a message of resistance, strength, and pride.
Ultimately, the representation of strong African women in art, particularly through dynamic and expressive techniques like alla prima, serves as both a celebration of heritage and a challenge to the ongoing misrepresentation of African identities. In their brushstrokes, these artists are not just capturing faces—they are capturing legacies, voices, and a vibrant cultural narrative that deserves to be seen and heard.
Working name: Portrait of a young black woman
Year: 2023
Material: oil on canvas board, alla prima technique
Size: 40*50cm
Inspo: photo from pinterest




