The King of New York
Known for his unique, childlike style Jean-Michel Basquiat can be characterised by his bold expressiveness, vibrant colours, and a combination of text, symbols, and figures. First appearing under the tag SAMO in New York - he rapidly exploded onto the 1980’s art scene where he scaled the summit to art superstardom almost instantaneously. His energetic and raw works blend various artistic influences, including graffiti, street art, African art, and abstract expressionism often exploring themes of identity, race, class, and societal issues, giving voice to marginalised communities that are as pertinent to his time as they are to today.
Emerging in the 1980s New York art scene, which was stoked by the blossoming street culture of hip-hop, punk, and graffiti. His art resonated with the socio-political climate of the time, addressing issues of racism, inequality, and the commodification of art. Basquiat's work became a visual representation of the changing cultural landscape of the era - a movement that he deified and led.
His journey from a street artist to an internationally renowned artist captured the imagination of many. His rise to fame and his collaborations with prominent artists like Andy Warhol and celebrities of the time including Madonna showcased his talent and brought attention to his work, solidifying his position in the art world.
Since his untimely death in 1988 his popularity has only continued to grow as new generations discover his exceptional canon of works. Highly sought after, his works have commanded high-prices at auctions, and he is often cited as one of the most influential artists of the 20th century further cementing his seemingly neverending legacy.
Overall, Basquiat's unique artistic style, cultural relevance, and his ability to capture the spirit of his time have contributed to his enduring popularity and influence in the art world.
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The Prince of New York
If Jean-Michel Basquiat is the King of New York then Keith Haring is its prince. A life tragically cut short by one of the most prominent issues of the 1980’s, Haring developed a unique visual lexicon that has inspired countless artists ever-since.
Haring’s trajectory and rise to fame saw the artist become both a commercial and critical success whilst riding the wave of street and peer popularity. Originally known for his New York subway drawings, Haring's first taste of “traditional gallery promotion” was his solo exhibition at Tony Shafrazi Gallery in 1982 that led him to international recognition. During the course of the next two years Haring continued to produce subway drawings which were seemingly taken by the public as quickly as Haring could masterfully jump off of a subway train and scribble his primal, childlike images in chalk on the black soulless advertising boards. Conversely, his surging popularity meant that only a select few could afford to buy his art, and soon people were selling imitations of his drawings.
Moving to New York from Pennsylvania he became friends with fellow artists Kenny Scharf and Jean-Michel Basquiat, as well as the musicians, performance artists and graffiti writers that comprised the burgeoning art community. Haring was swept up in the energy and spirit of this scene and began to organise and participate in exhibitions and performances at Club 57 and other alternative venues. Taking on the subjects of his era, still pertinent to this day, AIDS, drugs and the "other", Haring's unique style brings a vibrancy and energy, almost childlike, to these serious issues. Sadly short-lived, his career and longevity have transcended popular culture into the canon of art. Inherently human, touching with a frantic sense of the "now" his works seem to capture all of human existence in their bold and defiant expression.
His inimitable style uses bold, simple lines, vibrant colours, and iconic symbols such as crawling babies, barking dogs, and radiant hearts - almost caveman-esque proto-visual language that channels a deeply human response. Forgoing the usual gallery route, he sought to create accessible works for the public such as his large-scale murals and subway drawings which allowed him to reach a wider audience and engage people from diverse backgrounds.
Much like all great artists, Haring’s art was deeply rooted in social and political activism. He used his work to raise awareness about important issues such as AIDS, racism, drug addiction, and nuclear disarmament. His art often conveyed messages of love, unity, and inclusivity, inspiring people to think critically and take action. His art resonated with the dynamic pop culture of the 1980s. His imagery and style were embraced by the music, fashion, and club scenes of the time. He collaborated with popular musicians, designed album covers, and created artwork for renowned nightclubs, further amplifying his cultural impact.
Since his death in 1990, his foundation, the Keith Haring Foundation, continues to support HIV/AIDS research, education, and art programs for underserved communities. His commitment to social causes and his enduring legacy as an artist who used his platform for positive change have contributed to his ongoing popularity.
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The world’s most in-demand artist
From Bristol to the world - and everywhere in between. Known to but a select few, Banksy’s anonymous nature and socially charged works has led him to be seen by some as a Robin Hood with a spraycan. Generating wild curiosity and speculation he has manage to capture the imagination of the globe. Whether in the street or the studio, his innocent stencil style powerfully transmits social and political messages that can be at first glance simple but contain a rich juxtaposition and layers. Using his work to criticise authority, challenge societal norms, and highlight various issues such as capitalism, war, inequality, and environmental destruction, his ability to merge art with social commentary resonates with many people, as his pieces offer a visually striking and thought-provoking perspective on contemporary issues.
Whilst Banksy began as an underground artist, his work has gained widespread recognition and popularity over the last 20 years. His art has been exhibited in prestigious galleries (known and unknown to the curators) , and he has collaborated with notable figures in the art and music industries. Banksy's ability to bridge the gap between the street and the mainstream art world has contributed to his enduring appeal.
When one thinks of Banks it is hard to not think of motifs that have become embedded in popular culture. Pieces such as "Girl with a Balloon," "Love is in the Bin," and "Flower Thrower" have captured the public's attention and have been widely shared and reproduced, further amplifying Banksy's popularity.
Banksy's output cements the artist at the forefront of not just the street art movement but at the top of the artworld. A summit he has naturally scaled and shows no signs of descending. Andipa have curated international museum shows, popular exhibitions at our London gallery and exhibited at numerous art fairs, and are established as leaders in the secondary market for Banksy limited edition prints, sculptures, uniques and paintings.
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For more information on any of the artists featured, contact our gallery via sales@andipa.com or call +44 (0)20 7589 2371.