Myrtice West

1923-2010

Myrtice West was born in Centre, Alabama. After her schooling she found a husband and settled down to the everyday life of an Alabama housewife. West longed for a child, but the medical profession insisted that she was incapable of a natural conception. After years of hope, she gave birth to a daughter. Tragically, her daughter was shot dead as a young adult. West was distraught and she sought solace in her religion and paintings. Perceiving art as a way in which to channel her loss and inspired by her talent, which she saw as a gift directly from God, West began painting sections of The Bible. Her initial piece was a series of studies from the book of Revelation, and she soon moved on to illustrate other books of The Bible, always studying each section in detail before planning her painting. West also composed portraits and memories of her everyday life in Alabama, often including texts or narratives within the pictures. She made use of many materials on which to paint her bold work, including wood paneling, canvases and found objects such as birdhouses. In 2005, West’s home burnt to the ground, destroying all but 13 of her paintings. Despite her hardships and worsening health, she continued with her art up until her death. ¹