The meaning of Notary by Jean-Michel Basquiat

In the world of art, Jean-Michel Basquiat's painting "Notary" stands as a captivating masterpiece that continues to provoke curiosity and contemplation. The artwork, created in 1983, holds significant meaning and importance within Basquiat's oeuvre and the larger art world. At first glance, "Notary" appears as a chaotic composition, characterized by Basquiat's signature use of bold colors, frenetic brushwork, and enigmatic symbols, which allow viewers to interpret the painting in various ways.Straightforwardly, "Notary" explores themes of power, bureaucracy, and the judicial system. The central figure in the painting, presumably a notary, appears engulfed in a swirl of vibrant colors and fragmented text, symbolizing the overwhelming nature of legal procedures and the incomprehensible jargon often associated with bureaucracy. Basquiat's rough brushstrokes and seemingly spontaneous gestures convey a sense of urgency, emphasizing the fast-paced and often oppressive nature of the legal system.Moreover, the juxtaposition of chaotic elements and the vague depiction of the notary can be seen as a critique of the dehumanizing aspects of bureaucracy. Basquiat's use of fragmented text further adds to these notions, as it emphasizes the disconnection between the individual and the system, highlighting the anonymity and impersonality that can be experienced within a bureaucratic framework.However, delving deeper into the painting, an unexpected interpretation emerges, adding layers of complexity and intrigue. Beneath the surface, "Notary" can also be seen as a profound commentary on the nature of identity and the artist's personal struggle for recognition and validation. Basquiat, a Haitian and Puerto Rican artist, experienced the complexities of racial identity and the challenges faced by marginalized communities in the art world.The fragmented text within the painting can be seen as a metaphor for the fragmentation of identity, reflecting the artist's struggle to assert his own voice within a predominantly white and elitist art world. Basquiat's use of enigmatic symbols, such as crowns and skeletal motifs, hint at themes of power and mortality, further emphasizing the existential quest for recognition and the struggle against erasure.Moreover, the vibrant colors used by Basquiat not only convey the chaos of the bureaucratic system but also serve as a means of asserting his own presence and reclaiming his narrative. The intense palette evokes a boldness and vitality that cannot be ignored, just as Basquiat's artistic voice refuses to be silenced within the confines of established norms.In comparison to the straightforward interpretation, this unexpected reading of "Notary" adds a deeper emotional dimension to the painting. It invites viewers to contemplate the universal struggle for identity and recognition, examining how systems of power and authority can shape one's sense of self.Ultimately, "Notary" by Jean-Michel Basquiat is a multifaceted artwork that encompasses themes of power, bureaucracy, identity, and the individual's struggle against erasure. Its vibrant colors, fragmented text, and enigmatic symbols evoke a sense of urgency and challenge viewers to explore the painting beyond its initial chaotic appearance. Whether viewed through the lens of a critique on bureaucracy or an artist's quest for recognition, "Notary" remains a testament to Basquiat's genius and continues to inspire contemplation and discussion in the art world.