RADIANT BABY (1987) Drawing by Keith Haring

Keith Haring was born on May 4, 1958, in Reading, Pennsylvania, USA, and grew up in nearby Kutztown. Showing an early interest in art, he enrolled in the Ivy School of Professional Art in Pittsburgh in 1976 but left after two semesters. Haring then moved to New York City in 1978 to attend the School of Visual Arts. In the vibrant art scene of the late 1970s and early 1980s, he found his creative voice and a community of like-minded artists.

Haring's career took off in the early 1980s when he began creating public art in the subway stations of New York. His distinctive style, characterized by bold lines, vivid colors, and simplified, iconic figures, quickly gained attention. His work often conveyed social and political messages, reflecting his concerns about issues such as AIDS awareness, apartheid, drug addiction, and LGBTQ+ rights.

In 1982, Haring had his first solo exhibition at the Westbeth Painters Space in Manhattan. His art gained international recognition, and he participated in renowned exhibitions, including the Documenta 7 in Kassel, Germany, in 1982. His fame continued to grow, and he opened the Pop Shop in 1986, a store that sold Haring's art in various forms, making it more accessible to the public.

Haring's commitment to social activism intensified as he used his art to address the HIV/AIDS epidemic, which he himself was diagnosed with in 1988. He created the famous "Ignorance = Fear / Silence = Death" image to promote AIDS awareness. Despite his declining health, Haring remained dedicated to his artistic and activist endeavors until his untimely death on February 16, 1990, at the age of 31.

The Keith Haring Foundation, established after his death, continues to preserve and promote his legacy. Haring's influence extends beyond the art world; his impact on popular culture, fashion, and activism remains profound, and his work continues to inspire new generations of artists and activists around the world.

• Nationality: UNITED STATES
• Date of birth : 1958
• Artistic domains: Represented by a Gallery,
• Groups: Contemporary American Artists Artists presented by a gallery

The Artist was highlighted in an article in Artmajeur Magazine:

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