The artwork titled “Self-portrait” by the artist Jacob Lawrence, created in 1977, belongs to the Expressionism art movement and falls under the genre of self-portraiture.
In this vibrant piece, the artist portrays himself immersed in his craft. The subject is depicted with a thoughtful expression, its distinct and exaggerated features characteristic of Expressionism, utilizing broad swathes of color to convey emotion. The scene is composed with intricate details, featuring the artist sitting against a background cluttered with various artistic tools and sculptures. Several brushes, held purposefully in his hand, draw attention to his creative vocation. The background includes a painting with figurative elements and other objects that create a lively and dynamic studio environment. The use of warm and earthy tones, along with contrast and light, brings the viewer closer to the artist’s personal and artistic introspection.