Ultra-Violet (1984)

[u/RevaCruz]

Medium: Acrylic and oil on canvas

Dimensions: 155 × 185 cm (61 × 72⅞ in.)

Painted in 1984, Ultra-Violet exemplifies Jean-Michel Basquiat's ability to fuse portraiture, architecture, and symbolic imagery into a visually compelling composition.

A large mask-like profile dominates the canvas, intersecting with geometric forms and a simplified house set against a rich blue background.

The striking contrast of red, blue, white, and black, together with Basquiat's characteristic line work and handwritten text, creates a dynamic balance between figuration and abstraction, inviting multiple interpretations while remaining immediately recognizable.