Jean-Michel Basquiat was an American artist of Haitian and Puerto Rican descent who gained notoriety for his unique style of graffiti-inspired art in the 1980s. Born in Brooklyn in 1960, Basquiat's childhood was marked by poverty and instability. However, his passion for art was evident from a young age, and he began drawing and painting as a teenager.
Basquiat's early work consisted of street art, including graffiti and improvised installations. He used a combination of images, symbols, and text to create powerful and often politically charged pieces. His art was heavily influenced by his experiences growing up in a racially divided city, and he often explored themes of race, identity, and power in his work.
In the late 1970s, Basquiat began to gain recognition in the art world. He collaborated with fellow street artist Al Diaz to create the tag SAMO, which appeared on walls and buildings throughout New York City. Basquiat's talent and unique style were soon noticed by art collectors and galleries, and by the early 1980s, he had become a rising star in the art world.
Basquiat's art is characterized by its raw, emotive quality and its use of bold colors and expressive brushstrokes. He drew inspiration from a wide range of sources, including African art, jazz music, and the work of other contemporary artists. His pieces often incorporated words and phrases, which he used to comment on social and political issues.
Sadly, Basquiat's life was cut short when he died of a drug overdose in 1988 at the age of 27. However, his legacy lives on through his powerful and thought-provoking art, which continues to inspire and influence new generations of artists.
Crown (1983)
Hollywood Africans (1983)