The centre of the composition offers up a number of bones, which connects directly to the title of the work. Some of the parts of the leg are then labelled by Basquiat. Alongside these elements, though, is then a plethora of bizarre additions which initially leave us confused - how do these items connect within the complex mind of this artist. There is then a further foot included with the text alongside reading, "Dog Leg versus Human Foot". The artist would often compare different items within his paintings in order to make a particular point, such as in Caucasian, Negro.
There are then some references to Haiti, and the involvement of some western nations. Basquiat had clear roots in Haiti and so these historical events would also have been important to him. A strong knowledge of his background is necessary in order to understand some of the different parts of his paintings. He also placed the names of several famous boxers into this artwork, including Sugar Ray Robinson who appears again elsewhere. Basquiat was attracted to boxing as it allowed sportsmen from his background to achieve fame and fortune, even surpassing their white counterparts in some cases.
New York led the international art scene during the time of Basquiat's career and he played an important role in helping to achieve that. His work used unusual influences within that group in order to offer something a little different, with elements of graffiti and cartoon art as well as various parts of African culture. It was well received by most and the contemporary art scene was already about encouraging new ideas and so he was welcomed with open arms by a number of fellow artists. Academics would take longer to embrace his work but Basquiat eventually became a thoroughly accepted part of mainstream culture.
