“Poison Oasis,” created by Jean-Michel Basquiat in 1981, is a prominent example of the Neo-Expressionism and Street Art movements. Executed on canvas with acrylic and spray paint, this figurative artwork is notable for its striking dimensions of 167.5 x 244 cm. Presently held in a private collection, the artwork exemplifies Basquiat’s distinctive style characterized by its vivid, chaotic compositions and complex iconography.
The artwork features a central figure rendered in a skeletal, almost primitive form, surrounded by abstract elements and symbols. The dominant color palette includes vibrant yellows, reds, and blues, with the central figure contrasting in black and white outlines. To the left, a serpent-like creature coils, while to the right, a skeletal depiction of a bull’s head is displayed. The background is marked by sporadic shapes and spontaneous brushstrokes, contributing to the overall sense of disarray and intensity. The application of spray paint introduces an additional layer of texture and rawness, enhancing the artwork’s dynamic and rebellious nature. Overall, “Poison Oasis” is a powerful reflection of Basquiat’s unique visual language and the cultural tensions of the early 1980s.
