Intentionally hidden drawings have been found on one of Jean-Michel Basquiat’s paintings. After New York-based art conservator Emily Macdonald-Korth was going through a routine forensic job last month on Basquiat’s “Untitled (1981),” she was shocked to find a secret embedded within the work. Using what it look to be a black-light crayon, the New York contemporary artist inscribed two arrows, similar to those found on among the painting.

The placement and size of the arrow is similar to that found on one of Basquiat’s most famous works, Poison Oasis, but is pointing down rather than up. The conservator urges those who have access to Jean-Michel’s work to purchase a long-wave UV flashlight and survey the paintings for any concealed symbols or writing.

Words: Paola de Oliveira
Photography: Longevity Art Preservation