The artwork titled “Self-Portrait” created by William H. Johnson in 1935 is a notable piece within the Expressionism movement. As a self-portrait, this work reflects a personal interpretation and emotional expression of the artist himself.
In the artwork, Johnson employs bold strokes and a vivid color palette typical of the Expressionism movement. The brushwork is dynamic, contributing to a textured and almost chaotic background which contrasts with the more subdued depiction of the figure. The central figure, presumably the artist himself, wears a blue head covering and has a contemplative expression. The use of earthy tones for the figure against the cooler, more stark background emphasizes the intensity of the self-reflection depicted. Johnson’s signature is visible at the bottom of the artwork, affirming its authenticity.
