50 Cent Piece, 1982/2019
- Medium:
- Screenprint — Screenprint
- Size:
- 74 × 100 cm
50 Cent Piece is a compelling work by Jean-Michel Basquiat, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. Drawing upon the raw energy, symbolism and expressive visual language that define Basquiat’s practice, the work incorporates his distinctive combination of text, imagery and gestural mark-making.
Originally created in 1982, a pivotal period in Basquiat’s career, the composition reflects many of the themes central to his work, including money, power, identity, race and social hierarchy. The reference to currency transforms an everyday symbol of monetary value into a wider commentary on wealth, status and the way society assigns value.
The 1982/2019 edition brings Basquiat’s unmistakable imagery to a contemporary audience, preserving the immediacy and rebellious spirit that made his work so significant. Bold, energetic and layered with meaning, 50 Cent Piece captures Basquiat’s ability to combine street culture, personal symbolism and social commentary within a powerful visual language.
About the Artist
Jean Michel-Basquiat
Jean-Michel Basquiat (1960–1988) was a pioneering American artist whose work helped redefine contemporary art in the 1980s. Emerging from New York's street art scene, he developed a distinctive visual language that combined text, symbolism, history, and social commentary. His powerful works explored themes of identity, race, power, and culture with remarkable energy and originality. Today, Basquiat is regarded as one of the most influential and sought-after artists of the modern era.