Little Swimmer

This striking painting captures a figure floating underwater, their body suspended in a mesmerizing swirl of turquoise pool water. Calida Rawles uses water as both subject and symbol, exploring themes of Black identity, freedom, and healing. The way she renders the rippling, distorted reflections and light dancing across the swimmer's skin shows incredible technical skill while creating an almost dreamlike atmosphere.

Rawles's work often references the complex relationship between African Americans and water, touching on everything from the Middle Passage to segregated swimming pools to the simple joy of floating freely. There's something peaceful and meditative about this scene, the figure seeming to exist in their own private world beneath the surface. The contrast between the cool blues of the water and the warm browns of the skin creates a beautiful visual harmony that draws you in and makes you want to linger.