The artwork titled “Fear” is attributed to the artist Jean Dubuffet, completed in the year 1924. It is associated with the Expressionism movement, which emphasizes the expression of emotion and psychological states over realistic depiction. This painting falls under the genre of portraiture, but given the era and style, it likely eschews traditional representation in favor of conveying the feeling of fear through abstract or distorted figures.
Upon examining the artwork, one is immediately struck by the distorted figures that populate the canvas. The central figure appears to be caught in a moment of terror, with exaggerated facial features that convey a sense of alarm and unease. The gestures of the hands, particularly the one held up as if to shield the figure or fend off an unseen threat, reinforce this emotion. The use of swirling lines and muted, earthy colors adds to the turmoil and distress suggested by the figures. Unconventional perspectives and the intertwining of forms contribute to a sense of confusion and disorientation, encapsulating the experience of fear as a powerful and disquieting human emotion. The background and surrounding elements appear fluid and almost in motion, further accentuating the dramatic and expressive intent of the artist.