|
Early Life and Career
Jean-Michel Basquiat, a Haitian American artist, was born on December 22, 1960, in Brooklyn, New York. His mother, Matilde Andrades, was of Puerto Rican descent, and his father, Gérard Basquiat, was from Haiti. Basquiat's early life was marked by a series of unfortunate events, including being hit by a car at the age of eight, which led to a splenectomy.
Artistic Beginnings
Basquiat's artistic journey began with graffiti in the late 1970s, under the pseudonym SAMO, alongside his friend Al Diaz. This period is well-documented on WahooArt's Jean-Michel Basquiat page. Their work featured enigmatic epigrams, setting the stage for Basquiat's future in Neo-Expressionism.
Neo-Expressionism and International Acclaim
By the 1980s, Basquiat's paintings were exhibited globally. His art focused on "suggestive dichotomies," such as wealth vs. poverty, integration vs. segregation, and inner vs. outer experience. This is exemplified in his painting Piscine Versus the Best Hotels (or Various Loin), which showcases his unique blend of disparate materials and calculated irreverence.
Legacy and Tragic End
Basquiat's life was cut short when he died of a heroin overdose at 27. However, his legacy endures. In 2017, his painting Untitled, created with oil stick and spray paint, sold for $110,500,000 at a Sotheby's auction, setting a new record for any U.S. artist at auction.
Key Points:
* Born: December 22, 1960, Brooklyn, New York
* Nationality: Haitian American
* Art Movement: Neo-Expressionism
* Notable Works: Piscine Versus the Best Hotels (or Various Loin), Untitled
* Died: August 12, 1988 |
Loading Jean Michel Basquiat biography....
| |