"The Dark Held the Light" ORIGINAL

Original acrylic painting by Samoan artist Tanya Masaniai. A contemplative portrait exploring resilience, shadow, and light. Signed and includes a Certificate of Authenticity.

The Dark Held the Light is an original acrylic painting that explores the quiet truth that light does not disappear in darkness—it is held, protected, and sustained.

This contemplative portrait depicts a woman emerging from a deep, dark ground, her face softly illuminated as her gaze turns upward with calm resolve. Surrounding her, flowing arcs of muted teal, charcoal, and burnished gold move in a circular rhythm, suggesting protection, continuity, and ancestral presence. Subtle geometric patterns are woven into the composition, echoing heritage and memory without overt symbolism, while flecks of light punctuate the shadow like distant stars or breath suspended in motion.

Painted in layered acrylic on canvas board, this 16" × 20" work balances realism with abstraction, stillness with movement. The restrained palette and intentional contrast invite prolonged viewing, allowing the piece to reveal its depth gradually.

This is a one-of-a-kind original artwork, signed by the artist, and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity that is emboss-sealed and signed, affirming its originality and provenance. The surface is professionally varnished and sealed for protection and longevity.

The Dark Held the Light is suited for collectors seeking heirloom-quality art that honors resilience, interior strength, and the quiet power of presence.

Details

• Original acrylic painting

• Size: 16" × 20"

• Medium: Acrylic on canvas board

• Finish: Varnished and sealed for protection

• Signature: Signed by the artist

• Certificate of Authenticity: Emboss-sealed and signed by the artist

• One-of-a-kind original artwork