Untitled (Purple Fish)
Folk and Self-Taught Art

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Untitled (Purple Fish)
Artwork Details
Artist/Maker
Nellie Mae Rowe
American, 1900–1982
American, 1900–1982
Date
1978–1982
Medium
Crayon, gouache, and pencil on paper
Accession #
2003.140
Dimensions
Please contact the Museum for more information.
Location
Currently Not on View
Description
The fish was another commonly featured animal in the art of Nellie Mae Rowe. Rowe was a devout Christian, so the fish may symbolize her dedication as a follower of Christ. The fullness of Rowe’s fish might also refer to pregnancy and procreation, in accordance to the Mandé creation myth of southern Mali in which the ancient cosmos birthed twin fish. Although she had no children, she was very fond of them, and often called her handmade dolls her children.
Credit
Gift of Judith AlexanderImage Copyright
© Estate of Nellie Mae Rowe/High Museum of Art, Atlanta.