C11 Madam Jo-Jos Beryl Cook

The composition presents a whimsical scene populated by anthropomorphic figures embodying celestial and insectile forms. A central figure, costumed as a bee with exaggerated features – a bulbous face, prominent antennae, and stylized wings – holds a microphone and appears to be performing. The costume is completed with high-heeled shoes that introduce an element of theatricality and unexpected modernity.
Flanking the performer are two additional figures: one resembling a sun, radiating outward with spiky rays and a smiling expression; the other taking the form of a blue flower, its petals arranged to suggest hair, also displaying a serene smile. All three characters are positioned on what appears to be a stage or platform, indicated by the angled plane that cuts across the lower portion of the image.
The background is a dense, dark green curtain, which serves to isolate and highlight the figures in the foreground. The color palette is vibrant and saturated, contributing to the overall sense of fantasy and playfulness. The artist’s use of bold outlines and simplified forms lends a cartoonish quality to the work.
Subtextually, the painting seems to explore themes of performance, identity, and transformation. The bee-like figures costume suggests an adoption of a persona, perhaps commenting on the constructed nature of selfhood or the performative aspects of social interaction. The juxtaposition of natural elements – the sun and flower – with the anthropomorphic insect creates a sense of surrealism, blurring boundaries between the organic and artificial. The smiles across all three figures suggest a shared joy in this fantastical scenario, hinting at themes of acceptance and celebration of difference. The high heels on the bee-like figure introduce an element of irony and commentary on societal expectations or gender roles. Overall, the work evokes a sense of lightheartedness while simultaneously prompting reflection on identity and representation.