Helen LaFrance (Kentucky, born 1919) oil on canvas painting titled "River Baptism" depicting a small Black congregation standing by a river shoreline watching a baptism, a church and two parked cars can be seen in the background. Signed lower left and titled en verso. Housed in a contemporary wooden frame. Sight - 19 1/2" H x 29 1/2" W. Framed - 21 1/4" H x 31 1/4" W. American, late 20th century. Biography: Self-taught African American artist Helen La France 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. Now nearly 100 years old, she resides in a Kentucky nursing home. (source: "Helen LaFrance Folk Art Memories" by Kathy Moses). Alternate spelling: Helen La France. (Additional high-resolution photos are available at www.caseantiques.com.)

Overall excellent condition.