I had the opportunity to see a Basquiat painting for the first time.
Moreover, it was the 1982 work “Untitled” that was sold at the unbelievable price of approximately $110.5 million (approximately 12.3 billion yen), which was widely reported in the news. I’m sure everyone is aware of the news that ZOZOTOWN’s President Maezawa purchased it.
Driven by an urge to see it as soon as possible, I went on the opening day fully prepared.
Hillside Forum (Daikanyama)
The exhibition was held at “Hillside Forum” in Daikanyama. The building is designed so that you can see inside from the street, and suddenly the artwork is visible—what a location, what a presentation!
The glass facility conveys a bright atmosphere.
This artwork exhibition was presented as a special work in the “CAF (Contemporary Art Foundation) Award” artwork exhibition held by the Contemporary Art Foundation founded by President Maezawa.
The exhibition period was October 31 to November 5, 2017, and admission was free.
https://burart.jp/caf2017/
As befits an internet company executive, the venue allowed photography and web posts, showing an understanding approach.
Jean-Michel Basquiat “Untitled” 1982
The work was displayed prominently in the final area of the exhibition. It was displayed in the same zone as works by American contemporary art artists Andy Warhol, Marc Grotchman, and Christopher Wool.
The contrast with Andy Warhol’s “Flower” on the right side of the photo was interesting.
However, when I stood before this Basquiat work, many things ran through my mind. The depiction of a skull-like face rendered in unique coloring struck me with tremendous impact.
Looking closer through the protective case, the real breath of the brushwork seemed to transmit to me as well. I was stirred by emotions I couldn’t express in words, and caught in the intensity of the gaze, I stood transfixed for some time.
Delicacy and roughness seem to coexist.
By calculation, this would be a work from when Basquiat was around 22 years old. I wonder what thoughts he had as he brought this work into the world.
The canvas was utilized fully. Traces of brushwork remain on the sides as well.
The venue seemed relatively quiet and had few visitors even in the early evening on opening day. Since it is displayed for free, I think this is definitely an exhibition worth seeing.
As mentioned earlier, it can be seen from outside, but you can also appreciate the work from inside while sitting in the adjacent café area. Of course, discussing Basquiat while drinking coffee is completely fine.
Basquiat in Video
I filmed it on video. I also took close-ups, so please refer to them.
