“I Do, I Have, I Am” is an artwork by Saul Steinberg, created in the year 1971. The piece, which belongs to the Expressionism art movement, is an illustration that evokes thought and interpretation through its visual language and elements.
The artwork presents a striking and imaginative composition, utilizing both text and form to communicate its message. The phrase “I Do” is rendered in vibrant, rainbow-like colors, creating a radiant and energetic expression on the top. Below it, the words “I Have” are constructed from simple, linear shapes that mimic a clothesline, suggesting a sense of possession or accumulation. Finally, at the bottom, “I Am” is depicted as a sturdy, three-dimensional structure resembling a series of steps or blocks anchored to the ground, signifying a foundational assertion of existence. The use of various typography styles and the transformation of letters into structural components reflect Steinberg’s unique ability to blend textual and visual art. The background is a gradient of sky hues, providing depth and a sense of infinity to the overall piece.
