Explore CollectionsFolk and Self-Taught ArtUntitled (Woman with Butterfly Wing)

Untitled (Woman with Butterfly Wing)

Nellie Mae Rowe (American, 1900–1982)

A woman stands among several animals and in front of a large, multicolored scalloped wing, in which stands a bird with red and blue feathers. A profile of another woman floats in the top left corner.

Details

Title

Untitled (Woman with Butterfly Wing)

Artist/Maker

Nellie Mae Rowe (American, 1900–1982)

Date

1980

Medium

Crayon and marker on paper

Dimensions

16 x 20 inches

Credit

Gift of Judith Alexander

Accession #

2003.210

Location

Currently not on view

In addition to depicting single feminine figures, Rowe also imaged the interactions between women. With her short haircut, made-up face, and coy expression, the woman in profile seems more mature, while the figure facing forward wears an outfit reminiscent of a school uniform. The singular butterfly wing that alights between them and the sensual form that appears to spray water on it suggest a bath or some kind of rite of passage involving beautification and self-care that may be making the young girl nervous.

Image Copyright

© Estate of Nellie Mae Rowe/High Museum of Art, Atlanta.

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