Bella

Oil on canvas. Unframed 20"x28"/ 50cm x 70cm

Bella, an oil painting by Cuban artist Maikel Benítez, presents a striking interplay between realism and expressive texture. The artist juxtaposes the naturalistic rendering of the woman’s face with boldly textured, almost sculptural strokes in the crown of flowers, creating a harmonious tension between delicacy and vibrancy. Her rich copper skin tones glow against the jubilant blossoms emerging from her hair, evoking themes of renewal, rootedness, and inner flourishing. Her gaze—steady, unguarded, and gently luminous—anchors the composition, drawing the viewer into a sphere of contemplative stillness. The result is a portrait that feels both intimate and elemental, a quiet celebration of resilience and blooming self-possession.