Jean Michel-Basquiat, Essay Example

The Artist Jean Michel-Basquiat was an African / American artist who was born in Brooklyn, New York. His flamboyant artistic styles and fast paced lifestyle rocketed him to fame in artistic circles in the 1980’s. Regrettably, he died of a drug overdose whilst only in his early twenties. His celebrity status was gained through working with other celebrated artists of the period including that of Keith Haring, Andy Warhol and socialising with Madonna. His early work was inspired from being a graffiti street artist in New York City. During this time he had the street artist tag of ‘SAMO’ and this was a display of his art form in the alley ways of Greenwich Village.

As he moved into his professional career as an artist he became more responsible in terms of looking after his image. Despite this he developed a deep resentment of the commercial side of art and in particular the art dealers and galleries. He had a very vivid art style that involved quirky brush strokes and use of vivid colors. He liked the use of words and symbols and used these with great repetition in his art. Many of his critics felt that his art forms were of a puerile nature and more associated with child art. Despite the critics there was a considerable demand for the artist’s work and some of his works in oil and acrylics have sold in the market place for more than $3 million. The majority of his artwork is now held in the Estate of Bruno Bischaefberger, the New York City Gallery.

It was a great tragedy when the artist died at just 27 years of age from an overdose of heroin after being heavily addicted to drugs and alcohol. Many felt that his artistic styles would have continued to develop and mature. His work was heavily focused on human anatomy, having been influenced by the book ‘Greys Anatomy’ which was given to him when he was young. This was visible in his early graffiti style