The Nile

Jean-Michel Basquiat's 1983 painting The Nile, also known as Untitled (History of the Black People), is a powerful Neo-expressionist work that combines vivid Acrylic paints with Crayon on Canvas. Its Figurative imagery references Ancient Egypt and Southern United States culture, serving as a critique of Western society's often selective memory regarding slavery and history. The dynamic composition reflects Basquiat’s raw, expressive style and addresses themes of cultural identity, history, and racial injustice, making it a compelling example of how Neo-expressionism confronts societal narratives through bold imagery and gesture.