“Dirty Painting” is an abstract artwork created in 1989 by the artist Arman, associated with the art movement known as Nouveau Réalisme.
The artwork showcases a dynamic and textured composition, characterized by bold applications of paint in a vertical, linear pattern. The intricate layers of color vary from intense reds and oranges at the top, transitioning into vibrant yellows at the bottom. The tactile and seemingly chaotic application of thick paint invokes a sense of raw energy and expressiveness, aligning with the conceptual framework of Nouveau Réalisme, which often emphasized everyday objects and the authenticity of materials. The overall visual impact of the artwork is one of vivid movement and a rich interplay of colors, drawing the viewer into its complex and immersive structure.