The Inkwell Mermaids (Original)

This vibrant painting, The Inkwell Mermaids, showcases a mermaid emerging from the ocean’s embrace, her body bathed in golden light. Her long, flowing dark hair cascades down her back as she tilts her head toward the sky, caught in a moment of serenity and power. Her shimmering tail transitions from deep violet to light coral, accentuated by the swirling waves around her. The background is an ethereal sunset, where hues of indigo, crimson, and gold blend seamlessly into the foamy ocean. The scene is a fusion of movement and tranquility, evoking both mystery and resilience. Since childhood, I’ve been captivated by the magic of mermaids, so it felt only natural to bring the first Inkwell Mermaid to life on canvas. This painting is a tribute to the women and young girls who cherish Inkwell Beach and embody the mystical spirit of the sea. May she inspire those who see her to embrace their own strength, freedom, and boundless imagination.

 Historical Significance of Black Mermaids

For centuries, Black mermaids have been powerful symbols of survival, mythology, and the deep, ancestral connection to water. Rooted in African, Caribbean, and African American folklore, these mystical beings mirror the journey of the diaspora—resilient souls navigating vast and treacherous seas. From the water spirits of Mami Wata, who embody both beauty and protection, to the whispered legends of mermaids guiding enslaved people to freedom, Black mermaids hold a sacred place in history. Their presence in art and storytelling is a reclamation of identity, a reminder that even in the darkest tides, there is magic, strength, and an unbreakable spirit rising from the depths.

Daughter of the Inkwell Tide: A Saltwater Testament

She surfaces, sunlit and sovereign—
salt-kissed, spine arched in praise,
her violet tail slicing myth from foam,
hair unspooling the songs
our mothers never forgot.

In the lull between waves,
history sings in coral tones—
of daughters who swam beyond fences,
who claimed the sea as sanctuary
and the shore as home.

She is every girl who ever watched
the tide and dreamed herself free,
who found her reflection not in glass
but in water’s glimmering memory
of what could never be caged.

The ocean knows our origin stories—
Mami Wata in gleaming waves,
freedom whispered through current and shell,
resistance shimmered into being
on backs made of stormlight and grace.

Let her rise from the Inkwell’s breath,
where magic still crowns the brave.
She is not legend, but lineage—
a call to remember
how beauty survives the wave.

Medium: Mixed Media: Oil and Acrylic paint on canvas.

Size: 15.5 x 23.5 x .75

Shipping: Shipping and insurance is not included in the price of the painting. Shipping and insurance quote will be provided at purchase. Shipping is within the United States; hence, no international shipping. 

Authenticity: Painting comes with certificate of authenticity. 

Return Policy: All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges.

Please note that the framed image is a mockup and is intended solely to illustrate how the painting would look in a frame. The painting dimensions may not be accurate in the frame photograph, so please refer to the product description for the exact measurements. Frame not included. 

This is my favorite type of original painting that I offer. This original painting is delivered fully stretched on canvas. They arrive ready to hang with a pre-attached hanging wire for easy hanging. The artwork is printed onto a premium canvas that can add a beautiful addition to your room.  These resilient materials are built to last. If you choose to add an original painting to your home, I hope you enjoy it as much as I enjoy them in my home!