Jean-Michel Basquiat’s artworks are highly recognizable and personal. In contemporary times, many brands, artists, and/or musicians have used his artwork for promotional uses. The first time I came across his works was through Uniqlo’s shirts promoting his works. I was immediately intrigued by his unique use of colors, techniques, and the iconic three crown symbolism.
Basquiat was an American artist based in Brooklyn, NY. His artistic career skyrocketed with a small, anonymous project with his friend Al Diaz called ‘SAMO,’ which stood for Same Old Shit. The duo created graffiti around Brooklyn. After a disagreement, both artists separated ways and Basquiat started immersing himself in the art industry in New York. He quickly created many connections with well-known celebrities such as Madonna, David Bowie, and most notably, Andy Warhol who was his good friend and mentor.
Many of his works tackle societal & political issues. Specifically, some of his works such as La Hara represent the historical threat of cops on marginalized neighborhoods in urban cities. With barely any support from his parents and folks around him, critics speculate this is the primary reason some of his more personal works reflect on a journey to understand his own identity.
Sources
https://reinterpellations.web.unc.edu/about/basquiats-devil/basquiats-devil-essay/
https://www.theartstory.org/artist/basquiat-jean-michel/life-and-legacy/
https://www.wikiart.org/en/jean-michel-basquiat
Angelica,
Nice work on Basquiat here. He seems to have been a popular choice this year. Good information and personal thoughts. You get a 2/2 for your final post. Also your score on the final quiz was 39/50 which is pretty good. Enjoy your holiday break.
Jeff