in his career. For a work on paper, each is notably large, measuring 60 x 40 inches. Four of the five depict a single standing figure, the fifth a standing male-female couple (p. 161). The intensity and frenetic energy conveyed in each of these masterworks was not sustainable. Collectors Herbert and Lenore Schorr reflected on this in a discussion about their acquisition of one of the five works, saying that Basquiat told them that he would never again attempt a similar kind of drawing.14 That Basquiat recognized the importance of these works is supported by the fact that at the time of his death, two of the five were in his personal collection.15 What distinguishes these five works is the artist’s rendering of his subject. The presentation of a single standing figure floating against a background, in itself would hardly set these five works apart. Rather it is the means used by the artist to create each figure which is distinctive. Each figure results from the repeated attack of linear strokes made with colored oil paintsticks. In three of the five works these strokes are repeated in a somewhat evenly spaced linear pattern. In one, the figure is built up with a layering of linear and circular strokes, with no obvious strategy for placement. While the strokes used to create these figures are varied, in each of the five works the artist’s marks result in a highly compact form. In both variety and repetition, the strokes give each figure qualities not normally associated with human beings. Laden with corporeal density, these figures nevertheless seem weightless, rising up before the viewer.
Above
behind which vibrant, colorful brush and paintstick strokes thrust forward, in some cases permeating their physicality. The space surrounding and engulfing Basquiat’s figures is as alive and energetic as the figures themselves.
JEAN-MICHEL BASQUIAT
Untitled, 1982 Oil paintstick on paper 30 x 22 inches 76 x 56 cm Opposite, left to right, top to bottom
JEAN-MICHEL BASQUIAT
Untitled, 1982 Oil paintstick on paper 60 x 40 inches 152.4 x 101.6 cm Untitled, 1982 Oil paintstick on paper 60 x 40 inches 152.4 x 101.6 cm Untitled, 1982 Oil paintstick on paper 60 x 40 inches 152.4 x 101.6 cm
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Untitled, 1982 Oil paintstick on paper 60 x 40 inches 152.4 x 101.6 cm
Basquiat presents his Philistines as formidable foes. They are smug, possibly ignorant and indifferent, clearly antagonistic. He presents them as a strong, authoritative force that must be engaged and reckoned with. While these figures are confrontational, even frightening, the energy that they exude is irresistible. Simply, we want to be part of it. Who are the Philistines? Even though these figures present strong psycho-physical attributes, they are not the bearers of destruction. They are presented as a manifestation of the psychological forces that one must encounter and endure in the pursuit of a truer sense of self.
VII. FIVE DEFINING FIGURE DRAWINGS
Midway through 1982, Jean-Michel Basquiat executed five works on paper that today must be considered a highlight
These impressions are enhanced by Basquiat’s treatment of the space surrounding each figure. Similar strokes of oil paintstick are also used to render the background of these compelling figure drawings. He surrounded each figure with an array of words, symbols, and images, many of which are repeated over and over again, creating a highly energized space. The specific figural presence conveyed in each of these five works on paper distinguishes them not only in the artist’s oeuvre but also in all of twentieth-century art. What is truly remarkable is the artist’s ability to confidently create a frenzied picture, without its appearing overdone or confused. The central figure in each of these five works is mesmerizing. Are these figures the source or receiver of the energy depicted? In two of the five works there appears to be equilibrium between figure and background. The same excitement and agitation engulfing Basquiat’s figure pulsates from the elements surrounding it. The positioning of the arms and hands in these particular examples expresses a source of energy, active rather than passive.
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