The artwork, “The Caged Bird’s Song,” created by Chris Ofili between 2014 and 2017, is a tapestry that falls within the Neo-Expressionism art movement and is characterized by its figurative genre.
The artwork portrays figures in a dreamlike, surreal setting, rendered with a vibrant and vivid palette. It exhibits a triptych format, with each panel intricately woven to illustrate distinct yet interconnected scenes. On the left panel, a figure draped in flowing, multi-colored attire stands before an expansive, abstract backdrop. The central panel draws the viewer’s attention with a fantastical tree, its drooping branches resembling liquid drops, cascading towards a seated figure, creating a sense of fluid motion and energy. The right panel features another figure holding a birdcage, juxtaposed against an equally dynamic and colorful environment. The entire tapestry uses bold lines and fluid shapes to enhance the storytelling, evoking a sense of emotional depth and contemplation.
