“Fishing” is a 1981 artwork created by the acclaimed artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, belonging to the Neo-Expressionism and Street Art movements. This figurative piece, which measures 198.1 x 172.7 cm, showcases Basquiat’s signature raw and energetic style.
The artwork prominently features a central figure holding a fishing rod with a fish dangling from its line. Basquiat employs bold and jagged lines to define the figure, mixing anatomically suggestive imagery with abstract forms. The background is an amalgamation of vibrantly juxtaposed hues—predominantly yellow, purple, and pink—creating a dynamic and chaotic atmosphere. This piece exudes a sense of urgency and primal energy, reflective of both the street art scene and the emotional intensity characteristic of Neo-Expressionism. The brushstrokes and use of color contribute to the visceral impact of the artwork, signifying Basquiat’s deft ability to merge complex themes with an unpolished aesthetic.
