Jean Michel Basquiat

Jean-Michel Basquiat – Neo-Expressionism
Full name: Jean-Michel Basquiat

Nationality: American

Heritage: Haitian and Puerto Rican

Education: Self-taught

Movement: Neo-Expressionism, Graffiti Art
Style: Combination of symbols, text, primitive figures, and vivid colors

Influences: Jazz, African-American culture, street art, abstract expressionism

Notable collaborations: Andy Warhol

Major collections: The Broad, MoMA, Guggenheim, Art Institute of Chicago, Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris
Major Works

Here is a selection of Basquiat’s iconic works:
Untitled (Skull) (1981) — An expressive skull rendered with energetic brushstrokes and contrasting colors.
Irony of Negro Policeman (1981) — A social critique addressing racial stereotypes and police authority.
Untitled (1982) — A vibrant work combining human figures and symbols, emblematic of his unique style.
Boy and Dog in a Johnnypump (1982) — Depicts a child and a dog, symbolizing innocence and urban life.
Dustheads (1982) — Two human-like heads illustrating the impact of drug use and social struggle.
Hollywood Africans (1983) — A reflection on the representation of African-Americans in the film industry.
Defacement (The Death of Michael Stewart) (1983) — A tribute to Michael Stewart, an African-American artist killed by police, denouncing police brutality.
The Italian Version of Popeye Has No Pork in His Diet (1982) — A humorous piece blending cultural references with social critique.
Untitled (Red Warrior) (1982) — A warrior figure symbolizing struggle and resistance.
Now’s the Time (1985) —Inspired by jazz, this work pays homage to Charlie Parker.
Style and Influences

Basquiat fused elements of street art, graffiti, and abstract expressionism to create a unique visual language. His works are often filled with symbols, cryptic text, and primitive figures, reflecting deep social, political, and cultural concerns. Drawing from African-American culture, jazz, comics, and history, he addressed themes such as racism, identity, and violence.
Recognition and Legacy

Jean-Michel Basquiat is recognized as one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. His works are included in the permanent collections of prestigious museums such as MoMA in New York, the Guggenheim, the Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris, and The Broad in Los Angeles. Despite his short career, he left a lasting impact on the art world.
Quote

“I try to think about life when I’m working.”