Congolese Woman is a painting by Nicole Jean-Louis which was uploaded on January 29th, 2012.
Congolese Woman
As an African descent, I was fortunate to have visited and lived in Kinshasa, Zaire (Congo) in the late 60’s, after Congo’s independence on June 30,... more
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Dimensions
20.000 x 16.000 x 0.750 inches
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Title
Congolese Woman
Artist
Nicole Jean-Louis
Medium
Painting - Oil On Canvas
Description
As an African descent, I was fortunate to have visited and lived in Kinshasa, Zaire (Congo) in the late 60’s, after Congo’s independence on June 30, 1960.
At that time, President Joseph Desire’ Mobutu (b.1930-d.1997) was in power from 1965 to 1997. He launched a “Retour a l’Authenticite’” program which is a doctrine of authenticity. He wanted to bring unity and a strong national identity to Congo. He urged Africans to return to their cultural ancestral heritage. He sought a rupture from their Belgian colonial past. The national garment for men was a tunic like style clothing instead of the western suit and tie; or the men would wear the “dashiki” style as a button-down shirt. The national garment for women was the “pagne”, a long, colorful wrap skirt worn around the waist with their blouse. The women sometimes wore a head tie.
Going to the village was a cultural gala for me. It was always fascinating for me to see the women’s hairdos. From children to older women, the spiky hairdo was the style. This hairstyle was described as “Antenne” in French; in English, “Antenna”. The women wore long, colorful skirt (pagne). With their clothing and hairdos’ signature, they looked very confident and gracious.
A sight that puzzled me was a woman carrying an agricultural instrument like a shovel, a scythe, a pitch fork, a rake or a hoe with her infant at her back. My father explained to me- the women are the one who cultivate the land. The female responsibility is caring for the infants. In addition, in the rural area, the women have the bulk of agricultural work; gathering wood for the cooking; cropping food (cassava), and hauling water. The rural Congolese woman is a very hard working person.
The Congolese woman is very friendly and courteous. Upon entering the village, my father and I were greeted with hand clapping and partial bowing.
This is an honor for me to pay tribute to the Congolese woman.
Uploaded
January 29th, 2012
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Viewed 2,152 Times - Last Visitor from Syosset, NY on 03/29/2024 at 12:49 AM
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Comments (93)
Gull G
💖❣️💖Art provides an opportunity for kaleidoscopic thinking. Each time we shift the lens of our perceptions, we gain new perspectives — and new opportunities for innovation.💖❣️💖 CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR RECENT SALE OF A WONDERFUL WORK!
Bill Morgenstern
This is a fine, compelling portrait. I very much like and enjoy your African art paintings of everyday life situations and people. L&F
Alma Trebeau
I'd love this one to be featured in my Crazy Hair and Colors Group!
Nicole Jean-Louis replied:
Although I do not consider the Congolese hairdo "crazy", rather 'unusual', I will certainly take you up on your offer. Thanks Alma!
Nancy Griswold
...And that is a beautiful honor to the Congolese woman, they should be very proud of this work
Anoa Kanu
Really nice. Glad to connect to your site.
Nicole Jean-Louis replied:
The feeling is mutual Anoa, I am always happy to meet compatriot on FAA. Thank you so much!
Jimmie Bartlett
Beautiful painting Nicole! Your work is always colorful and with very interesting descriptions. F,L
Chris Berry
I'm drawn to this portrait and the way you convey happiness. Love her hair and the way you've framed her.
AnnaJo Vahle
Fascinating description and beautiful painting, Nicole! It must have been quite a fun adventure to visited and lived in Zaire. Interesting hair style. I like all the splendid details in the background, too. f/v
Nicole Jean-Louis replied:
Yes AnnaJo, it was a very interesting and exciting experience. Everyday brings a fresh occurence. The surrounding sounds, scenery and natives never ceased to captivate and intrigue me. Thank you AnnaJo, for your wonderful and very appreciative comment.