Don’t Rock The Boat 2020

Kayla Mahaffey’s 2020 painting *Don’t Rock the Boat* depicts a young Black girl in a boat. The vibrant colors and cartoonish style, reminiscent of children’s books, create a playful atmosphere. The girl sits calmly, paddling with a stick, while her oversized hat is blown off, creating a sense of motion and hinting at potential disruption. The title, "Don’t Rock the Boat", suggests a deeper meaning beyond a simple scene. The image invites viewers to ponder the challenges and expectations that Black youth navigate, questioning the pressure to conform or remain silent. The whimsical visual language underscores the importance of embracing individual expression, even when facing external pressures.