Miss Africa 2013

Kent Monkman made "Miss Africa" and I love the way he brings together so many different ideas, like a maximalist painting. He's not afraid to put it all on the canvas. The painting has a glossy sheen, like old-school magazine printing, and that slickness is really important. It's like he's saying, "I'm going to paint a history painting, but I'm going to do it with a knowing wink." There's so much detail packed in, but it's not just about the story, it's about how the paint itself is used. Look at the way the light hits the figures, creating a sense of drama and movement. Notice the way the colors pop and clash, like a visual explosion. Think about someone like Yinka Shonibare, who also uses history and storytelling in his work, but with a different kind of visual language. Ultimately, "Miss Africa" reminds us that art isn't just about pretty pictures, it's about asking questions and challenging the way we see the world.