Tenor 1985

"Tenor" is a 1985 painting by Jean-Michel Basquiat, a prominent figure in the Neo-Expressionist movement. Known for his bold, graphic style, Basquiat utilized a layering technique that incorporated text, symbols, and figures to create a visual language that is both complex and captivating. This piece features his signature crown symbol, alongside various animal forms, including birds and a rat, amidst a chaotic arrangement of fragmented imagery. Basquiat's work often explores themes of race, identity, and social commentary, reflecting his own experiences and observations of the world around him.