The artwork “Three Quarters of Olympia Minus the Servant,” created by Jean-Michel Basquiat in 1982, exemplifies the bold and raw aesthetic of Neo-Expressionism and Street art. Executed with acrylic, crayon, canvas, and paper, this figurative piece measures 122 x 113 cm. Basquiat’s eclectic style integrates vibrant colors, abstract forms, and text elements, demonstrating his unmistakable artistic narrative.
“Three Quarters of Olympia Minus the Servant” depicts a densely packed composition brimming with dynamic energy and raw expression. The artwork employs a mix of reds, blues, and yellows contrasted against beige and white spaces, creating a stark, striking visual. The central figure is rendered with a frenetic intensity, marked by bold black and red lines, and is complemented by a background adorned with cryptic text and abstract motifs. The inclusion of phrases such as “WOMAN DRY HER NECK” by Edgar adds layers of meaning and insight into Basquiat’s thought process. Overall, the artwork is a compelling amalgamation of chaotic vitality and incisive commentary, hallmarks of Basquiat’s distinctive oeuvre.
