The artwork, “Portrait of Shannon Dawson” by Jean-Michel Basquiat, created in 1977, is a compelling piece within the Neo-Expressionism art movement. This portrait exemplifies Basquiat’s characteristic style, which often includes raw and emotive expressions, a defining attribute of Neo-Expressionism.
In the artwork, the subject is depicted with a loose, almost abstract line technique. The figure appears to stand with a certain sense of casualness, hands in pockets, dressed in what seems to be a loosely fitted shirt and pants. Their hair is depicted in an unrestrained, curly manner, and glasses adorn their face, adding to the unique character portrayal. The use of shading and cross-hatching brings a rough texture to the clothing, creating a sense of depth and personality. The overall composition and execution reflect Basquiat’s early exploration of identity and human form, encapsulated in a minimalist yet expressive style.
