Portrait of My Mother 1931

Archibald Motley painted this “Portrait of My Mother” using oil on canvas. Motley, an African American artist, portrays his mother with an intriguing blend of directness and formality. The oil paint is meticulously applied, creating smooth surfaces and a sense of realism. Yet, it is the composition that truly captures the eye, drawing attention to the details within the domestic setting, such as the woven wicker chair. Through his masterful brushwork, Motley imbued ordinary objects with deeper significance. The chair would have been made through manual labor and repetitive processes, and the artist has created an interesting mix of traditional handcraft and fine art painting. We can draw lines between how the objects are made, and how the artwork is constructed, with all its layers and textures. The result is a complex and resonant painting that prompts us to reconsider the value and dignity of everyday life and labor.