Untitled by Rudy Bostic

Rudolph “Rudy” V. Bostic. Detail of an untitled and undated painting. 26 x 20 in. Courtesy of Beth and Greg Milliken.

This powerful feminist-oriented work was rendered using oil paint on cardboard in a warm variation of vibrant oranges, yellows, and reds tempered by cool greens and blues. It depicts seven women, six of which surround a central figure adorned with a multicolored headdress complete with a beautiful emerald diadem. She is clothed in a vibrant red dress and is adorned with red diamond-shaped earrings and a large jade and ruby necklace.  Her neck is elongated and she has broad shoulders, signifying royalty, stateliness and independence. The six women that boarder her are depicted in various states of empowerment including dance, relaxation, work, and play.