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Overview
"I don't think about art when I'm working. I try to think about life."
Jean-Michel Basquiat was born on December 22, 1960, in Brooklyn, New York, to Matilde Andrades, a Puerto Rican woman, and Gérard Basquiat, a Haitian immigrant. Raised in a multicultural environment, Basquiat showed an early aptitude for art. His mother recognized his artistic talent and encouraged his creative pursuits by taking him to museums and providing him with art supplies.
In his teenage years, Basquiat began as a graffiti artist in New York City, using the tag "SAMO" (short for "Same Old Sh*t") alongside his friend Al Diaz. The graffiti art drew attention for its poetic and enigmatic statements, capturing the spirit of the streets.
His transition from street art to the art world came rapidly. By the early 1980s, Basquiat’s unique style, characterized by raw energy, bold colors, and a fusion of words, symbols, and imagery, garnered significant attention. He incorporated elements of African, Caribbean, and American culture into his work, exploring themes of race, identity, and social issues.
Basquiat's career skyrocketed in the early 1980s. His paintings gained recognition for their depth, complexity, and socio-political commentary. In 1981, he had his first solo exhibition in New York, which received both critical acclaim and commercial success. Collaborations with artists like Andy Warhol further elevated his prominence in the art world.
Despite his rapid ascent to fame, Basquiat struggled with the pressures of success, substance abuse, and the constant spotlight. The intense lifestyle took a toll on his health and well-being.
Tragically, Jean-Michel Basquiat's life was cut short. On August 12, 1988, at the age of 27, he passed away from a drug overdose in his Manhattan apartment. His death shocked the art world, leaving behind a body of work that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Basquiat's impact on the art scene remains profound. His paintings, characterized by their emotional depth and powerful storytelling, continue to fetch record prices at auctions. His influence extends beyond the art world, inspiring subsequent generations of artists, musicians, and creatives.
Jean-Michel Basquiat's artistic legacy lives on as a testament to his raw talent, creativity, and the exploration of profound themes through his work. His paintings continue to provoke thought, challenge perceptions, and evoke powerful emotions, ensuring his place as an icon in the annals of contemporary art history.
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Series
Jean-Michel Basquiat
50 Cent Piece , 1982/83-2020Screen print29 x 39 1/2 in
73.7 x 100.3 cmEdition of 60 plus 20 APSeries: Other Estate PrintsCopyright The ArtistJean-Michel Basquiat, a luminary of the contemporary art scene in the late 20th century, left an indelible mark with his vibrant, expressive works that combined elements of street art, graffiti,...Jean-Michel Basquiat, a luminary of the contemporary art scene in the late 20th century, left an indelible mark with his vibrant, expressive works that combined elements of street art, graffiti, and fine art. Among his diverse oeuvre, one intriguing piece stands out: his print featuring the 50 cent piece.
Basquiat, known for his raw, emotionally charged creations, often explored themes of identity, race, and socio-political commentary in his art. His print featuring the 50 cent piece is a prime example of his ability to infuse everyday objects with deeper meaning and symbolism.
In Basquiat's interpretation, the 50 cent piece becomes more than just a coin; it transforms into a potent symbol of economic disparity, social inequality, and the struggles faced by marginalized communities. Through bold lines, expressive brushstrokes, and splashes of color, Basquiat imbues the image with a sense of urgency and dynamism.
The choice of the 50 cent piece as subject matter is significant. In American currency, the coin symbolizes a relatively small denomination, often associated with everyday transactions or loose change. However, by isolating and magnifying this humble coin in his artwork, Basquiat invites viewers to reconsider its significance and contemplate the broader socio-economic context in which it exists.
Basquiat's print serves as a commentary on the commodification of identity and the ways in which capitalism perpetuates inequality. By elevating the 50 cent piece to the realm of fine art, he challenges traditional notions of value and prompts viewers to question the systems that govern our society.
Moreover, Basquiat's use of the 50 cent piece can be interpreted as a reflection of his own experiences as a young artist navigating the art world. Coming from a graffiti background, Basquiat faced prejudice and discrimination within the predominantly white, elitist art establishment. Through his art, he often confronted these injustices head-on, using his platform to amplify the voices of the marginalized and disenfranchised.
Today, Basquiat's print featuring the 50 cent piece continues to resonate with audiences, serving as a poignant reminder of the enduring relevance of his work. It prompts us to reflect on issues of wealth disparity, systemic oppression, and the enduring struggle for equality. In its simplicity and complexity, Basquiat's print stands as a testament to his enduring legacy as a visionary artist and social commentator.ExhibitionsNews-
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