Helen La France (Kentucky, 1919-2020) oil on canvas landscape painting depicting an African American congregation gathering for a church picnic, with automobiles parked in front of a church and horse and buggy approaching lower left; food is being set out in the background while little girls play a circle game in the right foreground. Signed "Helen La France" and dated 1998 lower right. Floated in a simple wood frame. Stretcher: 18 in H x 24 in W. Frame: 19 in H x 25 in 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). Helen Lafrance died November 22, 2020 in a Mayfield, Kentucky nursing home at the age of 101. Provenance: Private Kentucky collection, acquired by consignor's mother directly from the artist.

Excellent condition.

A Kentucky Estate.