Julian Schnabel's Jane Birkin series, created in 1990, reflects his ongoing exploration of texture and materiality, a hallmark of his broader artistic practice. This series is part of Schnabel's "Tarp Paintings" category, demonstrating his innovative use of unconventional materials​ (Julian Schnabel)​​ (Julian Schnabel)​​ (Julian Schnabel)​. Each piece within the series, such as "Jane Birkin #1" and "Jane Birkin #4", showcases Schnabel's adept manipulation of oil, resin, and gesso on sailcloth, with dimensions that underscore the monumental scale often associated with his work​ (Julian Schnabel)​​ (Julian Schnabel)​.

The series is named after the iconic British actress and singer Jane Birkin, indicating a possible inspiration or homage. However, the abstract nature of the works and Schnabel's own approach to artmaking suggest a complex interplay of influences and meanings, extending beyond mere representation or tribute. The scale and medium of the paintings, using sailcloth as a canvas, not only highlight Schnabel's penchant for mixing materials but also possibly hint at narratives of travel, encounter, and the textures of memory—themes recurrent in his oeuvre.

Moreover, Schnabel's Jane Birkin series, characterized by its abstract style, forms part of his contributions to Neo-Expressionism, a movement that sought to revive painting in a post-Conceptual art context by reintroducing human figures and landscapes in a raw, emotional manner. This approach is evident in Schnabel's work, which often counters the dry intellectualism of Minimalist and Conceptual movements, aiming instead for a powerful emotional expressionism​ (www.wikiart.org)​.

The Jane Birkin series, like much of Schnabel's work, can be understood as part of a broader discourse on the act of painting itself and the emotional landscapes it can evoke. Each work in the series offers a unique exploration of color, texture, and form, inviting viewers into a deeply personal yet universally resonant aesthetic experience.