HUM_100_FINAL_PROJECT
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Southern New Hampshire University *
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R5033
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Arts Humanities
Date
Dec 6, 2023
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docx
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5
Uploaded by JusticeJellyfish21728
Khadijah Bowers
HUM-100
Professor Smith
Module 7: Final Project
The Basquiat Skull 1981 is a captivating artwork that I had the pleasure of seeing at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. This piece immediately caught my attention due to its bold and vibrant colors, as well as its raw and expressive style. The skull is depicted with exaggerated features, such as large eyes and teeth, which add to its intensity and power. One element that stands out to me is the use of text throughout the painting. Basquiat incorporates words and phrases in a graffiti-like manner, creating a sense of chaos and urgency. This not only adds visual interest but also conveys a deeper message about societal issues and personal struggles. The purpose of this work seems to be an exploration of mortality and the fragility of life. The skull serves as a universal symbol for death, while the colors represent vitality and energy. By combining these contrasting elements, Basquiat aims to provoke thought about our own mortality and how we choose to live our lives.
In my opinion, the creator successfully expresses their intended message through this artwork. The use of bold colors, expressive brushstrokes, and text creates a visually striking piece that demands attention. Additionally, the juxtaposition between life and death forces viewers to confront their own mortality in a thought-provoking way. Overall, Basquiat's Skull 1981 is an impactful work that successfully conveys its intended message through its powerful imagery and thought-provoking symbolism. Basquiat Skull 1981 is a provocative piece of art that explores how people express themselves through art in everyday life. It is so bold and bright
that one feels the impact of the artist’s emotions and experiences. In doing so this work enriches a continuing discussion of the culture which it represents, illuminating its value and meaning. It acts as a memory of art’s capacity for change and stimulates thinking that incites going deeper into the issues of cultural identity and creativity. In this way, the painting suggests that art plays an essential role in creating societal values. The Basquiat Skull 1981 is a captivating artwork that raises numerous questions about the relationship between culture and expression. As I ponder deeply about this work, one question that arises in my mind is: what is the connection between the possible intent of the creator and my own interpretation of its meaning? Jean-Michel Basquiat, the creator of this piece, was known for his ability to blend various cultural elements into his art. His use of symbols, colors, and text often conveyed a deeper message about society and identity. However, my interpretation may differ from Basquiat's original intent. This discrepancy can be attributed to
my own cultural background, personal experiences, and individual perspective.
Furthermore, this artwork prompts me to reflect on how my values have shaped and continue to shape both my expression and that of others. Our values serve as a foundation for our beliefs and
actions, influencing how we perceive art and express ourselves creatively. The Basquiat Skull 1981 challenges me to consider how societal values impact artistic expression and whether they limit or enhance creativity.
When studying the Basquiat Skull 1981, there are several aspects that one could focus on to address the questions at hand. Firstly, one could analyze the artistic techniques employed by Jean-Michel Basquiat in creating this work. By examining his use of color, brushstrokes, and composition, one can gain insight into his artistic style and intentions.
Additionally, studying the historical context of this artwork is crucial. Basquiat was a prominent figure in the 1980s New York art scene, which was heavily influenced by graffiti and street art. Understanding this cultural backdrop allows for a deeper understanding of Basquiat's motivations and how his work fits within the larger art movement of that time. To find information about this artwork and its context, one could consult various sources such as art history books, scholarly articles, museum catalogs, or even interviews with Basquiat himself. Online resources like museum websites or academic databases can also provide valuable insights.
Drawing conclusions about how Basquiat Skull 1981 relates to the humanities requires considering its impact on society and its ability to evoke emotions or provoke thought. This artwork addresses themes such as mortality, identity, and race – all topics that are central to human experiences throughout history. By examining these aspects in relation to other works of art or cultural movements within the humanities discipline, one can better understand how Basquiat's work contributes to broader conversations about human existence and expression.
Humans have an innate need to express themselves through created works of cultural and historical significance. This is evident in Jean-Michel Basquiat's iconic artwork, "Skull" from 1981. The skull, a symbol of mortality and vanitas, reflects the artist's exploration of identity and
societal issues. Basquiat used his art as a medium to challenge the established norms and provoke thought. His work became a catalyst for a cultural shift in the art world, breaking barriers and redefining what was considered valuable in contemporary art. Basquiat's boldness inspired other artists to embrace their individuality and explore unconventional forms of expression, leading to a greater appreciation for diversity in artistic creation.
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The Basquiat Skull 1981 is a powerful work of art that exemplifies the impact of human creative expression on culture. Created by Jean-Michel Basquiat, this piece reflects the vibrant and diverse cultural landscape of New York City in the 1980s. The skull, a recurring motif in Basquiat's work, symbolizes death and mortality but also serves as a commentary on societal issues such as racism and inequality. The relationship between human creative expression and culture is symbiotic. Artists like Basquiat are influenced by their surroundings, experiences, and the prevailing cultural climate. In turn, their creations become a reflection of these influences while also shaping and challenging societal norms. Furthermore, Basquiat's work serves as a reminder that creative expression can be a form of resistance against oppressive systems. By using art to convey his thoughts and emotions, he challenges societal norms and encourages viewers to question their own beliefs. Additionally, Basquiat's incorporation of symbols and text in his work highlights the power of language as a tool for communication and activism. In "Skull," he includes words like "toxic" and "poison," which can be interpreted as a commentary on environmental degradation and its impact on human health. This issue remains pertinent today
as we grapple with climate change and its consequences.
Personally, studying Basquiat's work has informed me about the importance of using creativity as a means of addressing social issues. It has taught me that art can be a powerful tool for sparking conversations, raising awareness, and inspiring change. In conclusion, human creative expression has the potential to impact present-day issues by shedding light on societal inequalities, addressing environmental concerns, and challenging oppressive systems. Through artists like Basquiat, we are reminded of the transformative power of art in shaping our understanding of these pressing matters.
References
Deitch, J. (2015, 01). "JEAN-MICHEL BASQUIAT: NOW'S THE TIME".
Artforum International,
53
, 133. https://ezproxy.snhu.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F
%2Fwww.proquest.com%2Fmagazines%2Fjean-michel-basquiat-nows-time%2Fdocview
%2F1646717213%2Fse-2%3Faccountid%3D3783
Marchand, E. (2021). Studying gestures in art.
Journal of Art Historiography, (25), 1-4. https://ezproxy.snhu.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.proquest.com%2Fscholarly-
journals%2Fstudying-gestures-art%2Fdocview%2F2608158728%2Fse-2%3Faccountid
%3D3783
RODRIGUES, L. A. (2011). "SAMO© as an Escape Clause": Jean-Michel Basquiat's Engagement with a Commodified American Africanism.
Journal of American Studies, 45
(2), 227-243. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0021875810001738