The artwork “Self Portrait” by Lois Mailou Jones, created in 1940, is an exemplar of the Expressionism art movement, falling under the genre of portraiture. This distinguished piece showcases the artist’s adept skill in portraying not only her physical likeness but also an evocative mood, utilizing bold and emotive brushstrokes characteristic of Expressionism.
In the artwork, the artist depicted herself with a contemplative and determined expression, capturing the essence of her character. Lois Mailou Jones is attired in a blue jacket draped over a red shirt, juxtaposing warm and cool tones to create a dynamic visual impact. She appears to be working in her studio, with a canvas before her and various artistic tools such as paint brushes visible. The background includes art pieces and sculptures, suggesting a creative and intellectually stimulating environment. The detailed rendering and expressive use of color convey a deep sense of introspection and dedication to the art.