Probably on my list as one of the most interesting and influential artists, Jean-Michel Basquiat was like a Shakespearean tragedy. An original New Yorker and highly gifted, he was destined for greatness and accomplished much of just that. But like so many cerebrally heightened artists, drugs was his bitch of choice as it had him by the balls eventually claiming his life at the forsaken age of 27, like so many before him...and some unfortunately after.
Basquiat, aka SAMO which was his tag name, started bombing on buildings in NYC mainly between 1977 to the early '80s. SAMO was also associated as a crew of graffitti-ests such as Al Diaz and Shannon Dawson, who at first were an anonymous group artists tagging down the place attracting attention. Definitely my type of hype! A lot of his work was poetic and even political at times.
Eventually graduating to canvas and mixed media, Basquiat was very much involved with the Neo-expressionist movement and was showcased in many galleries internationally. He often incorporated words in his paintings which were all rich in expression and imagery. He also represented his Haitian and Puerto Rican heritages and black history studying the topics of slavery and also segregation and civil rights within America.
Basquiat ran with the likes of Andy Warhol, David Bowie, Blondie and even dated Madonna prior to her stardom. He performed in a band called Gray which played at CBGB, Hurrah, the Mudd Club, etc.
Interesting fact, he loved to paint in Armani suits turning them into art pieces themselves, which were often covered in paint splatter. A true artist indeed.
Interesting fact, he loved to paint in Armani suits turning them into art pieces themselves, which were often covered in paint splatter. A true artist indeed.
"Untitled"
image source: wikipedia
"Fallen Angel"
"Untitled"
Below: photo still of Basquiat tagging from the indie film Downtown 81, 1981
The man himself:
image source: goldbergmcduffie.com
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