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This dynamic composition centers on a striking, stylized face rendered in bold orange, black, and earth tones, featuring exaggerated eyes, a green nose, and a wide mouth with prominent white teeth. Surrounding the figure are layered textual elements listing iconic African-American jazz figures such as “MOSES,” “BENSO,” “DAN BROWN,” “HENRY,” “NEWTON,” “COLSTON,” “FRANKLAND,” “OSWALD,” “FRANCE,” “DRAKE,” “HAKE,” “HAWKINS,” “LAROCHE,” and “SHERBRO,” situating the piece within a rich jazz heritage framework. Additional text on the right side repeats the word “SNAKES” multiple times in red, suggesting themes of danger, complexity, or subversion. The artist’s signature “BASQUIAT W” accompanied by the characteristic crown motif anchors the work in neo-expressionist territory. Characteristic of neo-expressionism, the piece employs raw, primitive figurative forms, a limited but vibrant color palette (notably oranges, blues, and reds), and rough textural brushstrokes. The spiky blue marks around the figure’s head evoke energy and movement, while the layering of names and repeated words creates a coded narrative. The composition engages deeply with African-American musical and cultural identity, urban street art aesthetics, and personal mythology. This is contemporary decorative artwork inspired by 1980s neo-expressionist aesthetics and the cultural vocabulary of Black jazz legends. Excellent condition throughout, ready to display. A compelling piece for collectors of urban art and neo-expressionism with a passion for jazz and cultural history.
This dynamic composition centers on a striking, stylized face rendered in bold orange, black, and earth tones, featuring exaggerated eyes, a green nose, and a wide mouth with prominent white teeth. Surrounding the figure are layered textual elements listing iconic African-American jazz figures such as “MOSES,” “BENSO,” “DAN BROWN,” “HENRY,” “NEWTON,” “COLSTON,” “FRANKLAND,” “OSWALD,” “FRANCE,” “DRAKE,” “HAKE,” “HAWKINS,” “LAROCHE,” and “SHERBRO,” situating the piece within a rich jazz heritage framework. Additional text on the right side repeats the word “SNAKES” multiple times in red, suggesting themes of danger, complexity, or subversion. The artist’s signature “BASQUIAT W” accompanied by the characteristic crown motif anchors the work in neo-expressionist territory. Characteristic of neo-expressionism, the piece employs raw, primitive figurative forms, a limited but vibrant color palette (notably oranges, blues, and reds), and rough textural brushstrokes. The spiky blue marks around the figure’s head evoke energy and movement, while the layering of names and repeated words creates a coded narrative. The composition engages deeply with African-American musical and cultural identity, urban street art aesthetics, and personal mythology. This is contemporary decorative artwork inspired by 1980s neo-expressionist aesthetics and the cultural vocabulary of Black jazz legends. Excellent condition throughout, ready to display. A compelling piece for collectors of urban art and neo-expressionism with a passion for jazz and cultural history.