Cradle 1967

"Cradle" (1967) by Benny Andrews is a vibrant oil painting that depicts a solitary figure suspended between two upright structures, reminiscent of a cradle. The figure is nude, with only their head obscured, creating a sense of vulnerability and mystery. The background features a simplified landscape of water, trees, and a bright sun, adding a sense of serenity to the otherwise unsettling composition. The work's use of bold colors and stylized forms reflects Andrews's unique artistic style, a blend of realism and abstraction, often exploring themes of race and identity. This artwork's symbolic representation of precariousness and innocence continues to resonate with viewers today.