Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

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The spiritual presence of Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, President of Liberia from 2006 to 2018, inspires French National Leopold Clouvel’s portrait of Africa’s first female elected head of state. With his multifaceted abstract forms and shapes, he focuses on a praying West African woman in softly muted native tones as the embodiment of the peacemaker with a dove emerging from her body.

A dedicated mediator, she transformed politics in Liberia and Africa as she became a symbol of hope for women everywhere. Clouvel’s doves hovering above a prayerful leader conveys his respect for her governance in education, economy, reconstruction, women’s empowerment, and healthcare. This oversized Cubist oil painting brings to life the quintessential essence of the winner of the Nobel Peace Prize.

Bold colors that envelope Sirleaf provide a contrast with the gentle, subdued nature of the transformative leader as Clouvel reveals respect for the remarkable beauty and sensitivity that lie within. Multifaceted abstract shapes and forms that are characteristic of Cubist painting seem to soften under Clouvel’s skillful palette, revealing the kindness and concern for others that Sirleaf possesses.

An eccentric and unconventional artist, Clouvel reveals his exceptional talent in mastery of all known styles of painting, techniques, and materials. His wide-ranging subjects nurture his creative instincts and satisfy his elusive eccentricity. Discerning collectors have chosen his impactful works since the 1980s.