Vera Lessard

Clementine Hunter (1886–1988) was a self-taught African American folk artist from Louisiana whose vibrant, narrative paintings chronicle the lives and traditions of the Creole community in the Cane River region. Born at Hidden Hill Plantation and later working at Melrose Plantation, Hunter spent much of her life as a field hand and domestic worker. She began painting in her 50s, using leftover materials from other artists who visited Melrose, initially painting on discarded surfaces like cardboard, window shades, and glass bottles.