acrylic on paper

45” 45”

2025

Matriarchs, I

And I find there’s an inherent sweetness about the grouping, like proud blossoms showing their best. To highlight this, I removed the details of their setting, placing all the focus upon the jovial ladies.

After fifty years, it brings great joy to finally see (L to R) Cornelia Hudnall (NeNe), “Pinky” Maxwell, Helen Mae Junkin (Grammaw), Ruby Hudnall (Nanny), & Clarabelle Junkin (Granny) liberated from the 4” x 4” photo that’s held their pose since 1975.

Matriarchs, I is paired with Milepost 14: Marry Me, my parents’ wedding announcement printed in the Clarion Ledger, Jackson, Mississippi’s longtime newspaper. Click on the link above to read more.

I intend to hang this piece in our dining room in Natchez, Mississippi once framed, so Matriarchs, I is not currently listed for sale. However, if you have your heart set on making it your own, you’re welcome to reach out to me.

As a kid, I often found myself flipping through the pages of my parents’ wedding album, fixated on certain photographs from the event and reception. Among the many favorites, a photograph of both my grandmothers, Helen Mae & Ruby, my maternal great grandmother, Clarabelle, my paternal great aunt, Cornelia, and the mother of Mama’s college roommate, Pinky, has remained a standout, one I have reimagined in paint for many years.

Because of their pastel gowns, I’ve always associated this image with Spring (despite my parents’ nuptials having occurred in late November).