Genetiese Heimwee / Genetic Longing 1984

"Genetiese Heimwee / Genetic Longing" (1984) by Marlene Dumas is a portrait painting notable for its use of bold, saturated colors. The subject, a woman with dark hair and a pensive expression, is rendered in a simplified style with emphasis on the face and hands. The contrasting hues of red, blue, and yellow suggest a sense of unease and alienation, reflecting the themes of identity and belonging explored in Dumas' work. This piece is a powerful example of her signature style, characterized by raw emotion and a focus on human vulnerability.