In this 1989 untitled etching, Keith Haring presents a powerful portrait with clear Fauvist inspirations. Characteristic of Fauvism’s bold distortions, Haring captures the essence of a black man through meticulous crosslines and intricately depicted curly hair. The dominating face is contorted, showcasing large, misaligned eyes—one positioned higher than the other—a flattened, curvaceous nose, and expansive lips that stretch across the visage, culminating in a diminutive chin. This head is mounted on a slender neck and shoulders, emphasizing the face’s pronounced features.

Surrounding this central figure is a tumultuous collection of symbols and objects, each bearing its own implications. On one side, a knife and a rocket ship loom ominously. On the other, an eclectic mix: a campfire, scissors, a pipe, an atomic emblem, a firearm, a phallic symbol, an inverted skull, the Star of David, an arching airplane, and an upside-down peace sign, among others. These symbols, seemingly unrelated, converge to create an atmosphere of chaos and tumult, hinting at underlying societal, political, and personal conflicts. To the portrait’s left, a conspicuous amulet dangles, its chain bearing a reversed dollar sign, perhaps a critique of materialistic values and their distortion.

Keith Haring’s exploration into etching allowed for a unique dimensionality in his work. Etching, an intricate process that involves engraving designs onto metal plates and transferring them onto paper, facilitated the depiction of textured and detailed visuals. Here, Haring masterfully uses this medium to conjure a detailed and emotionally charged image, densely packed with symbolism. This artwork, with an edition of 20, is a testament to Haring’s ability to meld technique and narrative, culminating in pieces rich with meaning.