Late 20th Century 'Prisoners' by Purvis Young

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'Prisoners' by Purvis Young USA, (1943-2010)
Boldly signed at the top 'Young'

A thought-provoking world of 'Prisoners' by Purvis Young … Read more 'Prisoners' by Purvis Young USA, (1943-2010)
Boldly signed at the top 'Young'

A thought-provoking world of 'Prisoners' by Purvis Young (1943-2010), a captivating work that resonates with depth and history. Boldly signed 'Young' at the top, this artwork features a unique color palette of baby blue and black hues. Executed on the reverse of an 8 x 10 black and white photograph from a 1970s family fishing trip in Key West, the juxtaposition of the photograph's serene setting with the intense subject matter creates a compelling contrast.

The composition depicts four chained prisoners standing with their backs to the viewer, a poignant portrayal of captivity and oppression. Framed in a newer white lacquered wood frame, with the original baby blue mat.

Purvis Young, a Miami-born artist, channeled his life experiences into his art, having been incarcerated in his youth. His works often tackled themes of wrongful imprisonment and mass incarceration, reflected here through the subtle incorporation of padlock imagery.

'Prisoners' shows Young's artistic prowess but also serves as a powerful commentary on the injustices and struggles faced by those in society's shadows. This piece is a testament to Young's dedication to documenting the lives, deaths, and dreams of people around him, leaving an indelible mark on art and social consciousness. See less