“Gold Griot,” created by Jean-Michel Basquiat in 1984, is an illustrious work that belongs to the Neo-Expressionism and Street Art movements. The medium employed includes oil, pencil, and wood, yielding a piece that measures 297 by 185.5 cm. This figurative artwork is emblematic of Basquiat’s distinctive style.
The artwork depicts a figure characterized by a skeletal structure and a prominent mask-like head, rendered with an amalgamation of bold, vibrant colors, and dynamic brushstrokes. The figure is painted onto a wooden surface composed of horizontal planks, imbuing the artwork with an earthy, textured background. The skeletal form is accentuated with white and blue hues, contrasting sharply against the gold and brown tones of the wood. The mask-like head features intricate patterns and sharp lines, evoking a tribal aesthetic. The raw, expressive quality of the lines and the juxtaposition of colors and materials illustrate Basquiat’s ability to merge street art’s raw energy with the profound depth of Neo-Expressionism.
