Helen La France (Kentucky, 1919-2020) oil on canvas painting depicting the Wooldridge Monuments in Maplewood Cemetery in Mayfield, Kentucky. The National Historical Register site features marble and limestone monuments commissioned for Colonel Henry G. Wooldridge, to commemorate family members and other loved ones of his life, from 1892 until his own death in 1899. (Interestingly, Colonel Wooldridge – who is depicted in marble on his horse – is believed to be the only person actually buried at the site). Sight: 21" H x 46" W. Framed: 22 1/2" H x 47 1/2" 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). Note: Helen LaFrance died November 22, 2020 in a Mayfield, Kentucky nursing home at the age of 101. The Wooldridge Monuments were not damaged in the devastating 2021 Mayfield tornado.

PROVENANCE: Private Kentucky collection; the consignor was a friend of the artist and acquired it directly from her.

CONDITION: Canvas has been stapled to a foam core board. Some craquelure upper center, sky area. Scattered flyspecks and a couple of light scratches. Overall very good condition.