Penitent Mary Magdalen 2009

Kehinde Wiley’s “Penitent Mary Magdalen” (2009) is a striking contemporary portrait of a young Black man in modern attire posed against a backdrop of vibrant, yellow flowers. The work, part of Wiley’s signature “World Stage” series, reimagines iconic Western art historical compositions with figures from contemporary Black culture, challenging traditional notions of representation and challenging the viewer to reconsider the history of art. The bold colors and detailed brushwork of this oil on canvas painting showcase Wiley's mastery of realism, captivating viewers with its captivating realism and thought-provoking composition.