In There's Nothing Left to Prove, award-winning artist Shakia Harris presents a striking abstract portrait of a Black woman with long, flowing curls. The painting's textures and swirls of color celebrate the beauty and individuality of natural hair, standing boldly against a softened, layered background.
What makes this piece especially compelling is its evolution. Originally begun as a wedding study, subtle hints of the bride’s dress and the wedding venue can still be seen peeking through the portrait. This layering reflects a recurring theme in Shakia’s work: painting over stagnant ideas while leaving traces of the past to honor the journey.
This painting also embodies Shakia’s personal story of self-discovery and self-acceptance. For years, she felt pressure to conform, chemically straightening her natural curls into her twenties. Inspired by the documentary Good Hair, she began unlearning harmful beauty standards and fully embraced her natural texture.
The title, There's Nothing Left to Prove, encapsulates her realization: natural beauty is complete and valid on its own. Through this piece, Shakia encourages viewers to celebrate their authenticity and stand proudly in their truth, knowing they too have nothing left to prove
*Medium:professional oils on stretched canvas,
* Size: 12" x 16" (.75 inch depth canvas with solid edge)
*Includes: protective varnish, Dustcover, picture hanging hardware, & certificate of authenticity
*Varnish Applied:Clear & protective coating for oil paintings. Will not cloud or yellow with age.
Return and Exchange: Painting eligible for exchange of equal or higher value or store credit within 30 days of delivery/pickup date.
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