The artwork titled “Léautaud sorcerer Redskin” was created by Jean Dubuffet in 1946. As a piece conceived during the development of the Art Brut movement, this portrait is emblematic of the raw artistic vision that Dubuffet sought to capture, free from traditional norms and aesthetic standards.
In this artwork, we observe a figure depicted with loose, almost primitive lines that give a raw and immediate impression. The colors are predominantly in shades of red and brown, creating a somewhat earthy and intense visual impact. The portrait’s subject appears to be roughly sketched, with facial features and attire indicated by simple shapes and markings.
Dubuffet’s technique involves the use of thick, textural strokes that convey a sense of immediacy and spontaneity, characteristics that are hallmarks of the Art Brut movement. This movement championed a form of expression that was unfiltered by artistic training or cultural influences, often inspired by the works of outsiders to the traditional art world, such as children or psychiatric patients.
The portrait’s subject seems to exude a certain character or persona, possibly implied by the title to be a sorcerer or shamanistic figure, as suggested by the term “Redskin.” This term, however, should be noted as being an outdated and culturally insensitive reference to Indigenous peoples.
Overall, Dubuffet’s work eschews conventional portrayals of individuals, instead offering a raw and emotive rendering that seeks to tap into the more visceral and unembellished aspects of human representation.
