The artwork entitled “Untitled (Buy Me)” was created by Barbara Kruger in 1984 and is part of the Conceptual Art movement. This figurative piece prominently features a black and white photographic image with bold textual elements.
In the artwork, there is a surreal and fragmented depiction of a figure or character that draws immediate attention. The figure exhibits exaggerated features, such as large eyes and a protruding tongue, which lend an exaggerated, almost cartoonish quality to the piece. Superimposed atop the image are blocks of white text with heavy black typography that read, “Buy me,” and a smaller text below the figure’s mouth that states, “I’ll change your life.” The composition of the artwork is stark and impactful, utilizing high contrast between the black and white elements to amplify the commanding nature of the text. Kruger’s piece serves as a powerful commentary on consumer culture and the persuasive language of advertising.
