Blown Glass Ornament: Jean-Michel Basquiat

• Mold-blown glass ornament, meticulously hand-painted

• Product type: Holiday Ornament
• Shipping Dimensions: 4.5 × 4.0 × 2.5 inches
  (11.4 × 10.2 × 6.4 cm)
• Shipping Weight: 0.37 lb (6.0 oz; 170 g)
• SKU010006054

Jean-Michel Basquiat was a remarkable American artist who left an indelible mark on the art world during the 1980s. Born on December 22, 1960, in Brooklyn, New York, Basquiat's life was a journey of creativity, passion, and self-expression.

From a young age, Basquiat showed an intense interest in art. He started drawing and painting on any surface he could find, from scraps of paper to walls in his neighborhood. His unique talent soon caught the eye of the art world. At just 17 years old, he left home to pursue his dream of becoming an artist.

Basquiat's art was a blend of graffiti, street art, and fine art. His work often featured bold, vivid colors, and a mix of words and symbols that conveyed powerful messages about race, identity, and social issues. He drew inspiration from his Haitian and Puerto Rican heritage and the vibrant streets of New York City.

In the 1980s, Basquiat's art gained widespread recognition, and he became a prominent figure in the New York art scene. His graffiti-style paintings were exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, and he collaborated with other influential artists like Andy Warhol and Keith Haring.

One of Basquiat's most famous works is "Untitled," which sold for millions of dollars. His success as an artist was not only a testament to his talent but also a symbol of breaking down barriers in the art world, as he was one of the first Black artists to achieve such acclaim.

Beyond his art, Basquiat's life was marked by challenges. He faced struggles with substance abuse and the pressures of fame. Tragically, he passed away on August 12, 1988, at the young age of 27. His untimely death was a loss to the art world, but his legacy endures.

Jean-Michel Basquiat's impact on art and culture is profound. His art continues to inspire and provoke thought, addressing important themes of race, inequality, and personal expression. Basquiat's story reminds us that creativity knows no boundaries and that art has the power to challenge, inspire, and change the world. He remains a symbol of artistic freedom and a testament to the enduring power of self-expression through art.

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Your purchase supports the mission and programs of the Chrysler Museum of Art (including the Perry Glass Studio, and the Moses Myers House). We couldn't do what we do without you. Thank you.