Jean-Michel Basquiat's Xerox paintings, created between 1985 and 1988, represent a significant and innovative period in his artistic career. These works are characterized by their use of photocopied elements, which Basquiat would manipulate, layer, and integrate into his paintings. This technique allowed him to explore themes of replication, identity, and the proliferation of images in contemporary society.

Basquiat's Xerox paintings often included repeated motifs and images, creating a sense of rhythm and movement within the compositions. He utilized the photocopier to reproduce fragments of his earlier works, text, and various symbols, which he then combined with traditional painting techniques. This fusion of media highlights Basquiat's inventive approach and his ability to blur the boundaries between different artistic disciplines.

The Xerox series reflects Basquiat's engagement with the idea of the artist as a cultural commentator. By reproducing and recontextualizing images, he critiqued the commodification of art and the pervasive influence of media. The layered, collage-like quality of these works also speaks to Basquiat's interest in the fragmented nature of contemporary life and the complex interplay of historical and contemporary references in his art.

One of the notable aspects of these paintings is how they demonstrate Basquiat's continuing dialogue with his influences and peers. The Xerox works often incorporate references to his collaborations with Andy Warhol and his admiration for the Pop Art movement, while also maintaining his unique visual language rooted in street art and neo-expressionism.

The Xerox paintings from 1985 to 1988 are a testament to Basquiat's ability to innovate and push the boundaries of contemporary art. They encapsulate his exploration of themes such as identity, media saturation, and the role of the artist in society, making them an essential part of his legacy. Matis Club, Wikipedia