Jean-Michel Basquiat: A Bio

#### Full Name and Common Aliases
Jean-Michel Basquiat was born on December 22, 1960, in Brooklyn, New York. His parents, Matilde Andrée (known as "Mitty") and Gérard Basquiat, were Haitian immigrants.

#### Birth and Death Dates
December 22, 1960 - August 12, 1988

#### Nationality and Profession(s)
American, painter, graffiti artist, and musician.

Early Life and Background

Growing up in Brooklyn's Park Slope neighborhood, Jean-Michel Basquiat was exposed to the vibrant street art scene of New York City. His father, a grocery store owner, encouraged his son's interest in art from an early age. Basquiat's mother, Matilde, instilled in him a love for Haitian culture and history.

As a teenager, Basquiat adopted the graffiti tag "SAMO" (Same Old Shit) with fellow artist Al Diaz. Under this moniker, they created anonymous works of art throughout Manhattan, often incorporating social commentary and humor. This early experience with street art laid the foundation for his future success as a fine artist.

Major Accomplishments

By 1982, Basquiat's work had gained recognition within the New York City art scene. His first solo exhibition at the Annina Nosei Gallery in SoHo marked a significant milestone in his career. Throughout the decade, he exhibited extensively across the United States and Europe, establishing himself as a leading figure in the Neo-Expressionist movement.

In 1985, Basquiat collaborated with Andy Warhol on a series of works that combined their styles. This partnership not only generated critical acclaim but also underscored Basquiat's growing status within the art world.

Notable Works or Actions

Some of Basquiat's most iconic works include:

_"Untitled (Skull)"_ (1982), which sold for $110 million at auction in 2017
_"In the Way"_ (1983)
* _"Dustheads"_ (1982)

Basquiat's unique blend of graffiti, abstract expressionism, and historical references resulted in paintings that are both visually striking and intellectually engaging.

Impact and Legacy

Jean-Michel Basquiat's impact on modern art is undeniable. His innovative style and fearless approach to exploring themes such as racism, classism, and social inequality have inspired generations of artists.

In 2017, his painting _"Untitled (Skull)"_ became the first work by an African American artist to sell for over $100 million at auction. This milestone marked a significant shift in the art world's recognition of Basquiat's importance.

Why He Is Widely Quoted or Remembered

Jean-Michel Basquiat's influence extends far beyond his artwork. His unapologetic approach to challenging societal norms and conventions has made him an icon for marginalized communities.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in Basquiat's life and work, with the release of the biopic _"Bigger Than Life"_ (2018) and various exhibitions celebrating his legacy.