Roots Run Deep 2019

Kayla Mahaffey's 2019 artwork "Roots Run Deep" is a vibrant and playful piece characterized by bold lines, vivid colors, and a whimsical aesthetic. The piece features a close-up portrait of a young Black child, their head adorned with a large pink flower, and surrounded by a colorful assortment of other flowers and abstract shapes. The child's expression is contemplative, hinting at the complexities of identity and heritage explored by the artist. The whimsical elements, like the cartoonish yellow creature at the bottom, add a lighthearted counterpoint to the portrait's central message of rootedness. "Roots Run Deep" reflects Mahaffey's interest in exploring themes of family, community, and personal growth through the lens of a vibrant and engaging visual language.