Bowleg and Marquis 

Alfred Conteh’s work, "Bowleg and Marquis" is a striking painting that confronts us with questions of identity, heritage, and representation. The all-over use of green pigment casts the figures in an otherworldly light, and might invite us to consider the symbolism of the color, the idea of growth, renewal, or even perhaps, a more critical commentary on environmental issues or social alienation. Conteh’s painting was made in the contemporary United States where one can't ignore the historical context of the African American experience. Social structures and artistic institutions have often played a role in shaping the narrative of Black identity, and artists like Conteh challenge those established norms. To fully appreciate the artwork, one might consider the cultural context in which it was created. It is important to be aware of the artist’s biography and statements, and to delve into relevant literature, articles and criticism. Ultimately, art history is a continuous process of investigation through which we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and contradictions inherent in art.