The artwork titled “The Old Dilemma,” created in 1988 by Desmond Morris, represents the Surrealism art movement and belongs to the figurative genre.
The artwork showcases a surrealist scene characterized by the amalgamation of human-like figures with lampshade heads. The central figure appears to be in a gestural stance with outstretched arms, flanked by three smaller figures who share similar anthropomorphic features. The color palette predominantly consists of varying shades of yellow and green, creating an otherworldly ambiance. The lines are fine and precise, contributing to the detailed depiction of the forms. The overall composition imbues a dreamlike, metaphorical essence, evocative of the artist’s contemplation on human identity and societal roles. This portrayal aligns with the hallmarks of Surrealism, wherein familiar objects are rendered in unfamiliar and thought-provoking contexts.
