Helen La France (Kentucky, 1919-2020) large oil on canvas landscape painting depicting an African American congregation gathering for a Church Picnic, with automobiles parked in front of a church and horse and buggy approaching lower left; a table is being spread in the background, while little girls play a circle game in the right foreground. Signed "Helen La France" lower right. Housed in a hand made grain painted frame with carved rondels at corners and beaded rabbet edge. Sight – 24" H x 36" W. Framed – 32" H x 43" W. Biography: "Self-taught African American artist Helen LaFrance was born on a Kentucky farm and began painting in her 40s. She is known for her "memory paintings" – drawn from her recollections of life growing up in the rural South. Several museums and private collectors, including Oprah Winfrey, own examples of her work." (Source: "Helen LaFrance Folk Art Memories" by Kathy Moses). Helen Lafrance died November 22, 2020 in a Mayfield, Kentucky nursing home at the age of 101. Provenance: Private Mississippi collection, acquired by consignor's mother directly from the artist. CONDITION: Overall excellent condition. 1/4" inclusion in tree/leaf area; a few scattered flyspecks.