Malik Whitaker

The "Sisters: A Tribute to Southern Girlhood" series beautifully captures the shared narrative of Black women who, as young girls in the 60s, 70s, and 80s, carried the legacy of their Southern-migrated ancestors, expressed through the cherished traditions of church attire and Black hair. Rendered with meticulous pointillism, the paintings celebrate the elegance and individuality of these young girls in their Sunday best, highlighting the intricate details of lace gloves, colorful barrettes, and diverse hairstyles like braids and afros, each a symbol of beauty, strength, and cultural identity. This powerful collection honors the enduring bonds of sisterhood and the quiet resilience of the Black community, reminding an entire generation of women of their strength and heritage as expressed through these deeply meaningful cultural touchstones.