“The Rest of Her Remains” by Njideka Akunyili Crosby, created in 2010, is an exemplary piece from the Postcolonial art movement and falls within the genre of genre painting. The artwork captures an intimate scene centered on the tender portrayal of a resting individual, who appears to be a woman, lying on a bed.
The artwork is striking in its use of mixed media, combining elements of collage and painting. The bed, covered with a quilt adorned with various patterns and imagery, acts as a vibrant tapestry that contrasts with the more subdued figure in grayscale. Surrounding the resting figure, the room hints at personal and cultural histories through the detailed patches of the quilt and the wardrobe in the background. The woman’s pose and serene expression evoke a sense of tranquility and introspection, while the blending of different textures and tones showcases the artist’s intricate technique and narrative depth.