Marlene Dumas - Mixed Media Set (Handwritten Poem with hand-worked lithograph)

This Mixed Media set consists of an original handwritten poem paired with a hand-worked lithograph by the artist, forming a deeply personal and emotionally charged dialogue between image and text. The set from 1986 represents an early and highly expressive phase in her artistic career.

The composition centers on a haunting, psychologically charged portrait of a young boy. The emotionally resonant face appears both vulnerable and confrontational, reflecting Dumas’ lifelong exploration of identity, intimacy, power, and the human condition. Executed as a hand-worked lithograph - the work combines printed elements with direct manual intervention, giving each work a unique character.  The handwritten poem expands the emotional and conceptual field of the visual work, addressing themes of intimacy, vulnerability, control, and human connection.

The handwritten poem is signed, and dated (Amsterdam 1986) by M.Dumas. The hand-worked lithograph, on 250 gsm B.F.K. Rives paper, is hand-signed and dated in pencil by Marlene Dumas in the lower left and is hand-numbered from a very limited edition of only 20, all individually worked by the artist.

Sheet size each approx. 76.5 x 57 cm

The work is documented in: Marlene Dumas – Sweet Nothings: Notes and Texts, Galerie Paul Andriesse & De Balie Publishers, Amsterdam, 1998, p. 30.

Marlene Dumas (born 1953 South Africa) is one of the most influential contemporary artists of her generation. She is internationally renowned for her psychologically charged figurative works, often addressing themes such as sexuality, race, death, vulnerability, and power. Since the 1980s, her work has been exhibited worldwide and is held in major museum collections. Her works are known for their emotional intensity, painterly sensitivity, and intellectual depth, often blurring the boundaries between intimacy and discomfort.

Authenticity and provenance guaranteed. 
Delivered with a certificate of authenticity.
Worldwide shipping, tax-friendly to the USA and EU countries.
Custom handmade framing available on request.