This lot consists of a large, unframed acrylic on canvas, executed in the street art style of graffiti artist Jean-Michel Basquiat (American, 1960-1988). "SAMO" appears at lower right along with stamps and labels en verso.

Jean-Michel Basquiat (American, 1960-1988) was an influential New York artist of Haitian and Puerto Rican descent. Basquiat first achieved fame as part of SAMO, an informal graffiti duo who wrote enigmatic epigrams in the cultural hotbed of Manhattan's Lower East Side. It was here, during the late 1970s, that rap, punk, and street art coalesced into early hip-hop culture. By the 1980s, Basquiat's neo-expressionist paintings were being exhibited in galleries and museums internationally.

Basquiat used social commentary as a tool for introspection, and for identifying with his own experiences in the black community. Basquiat also used his platform to bring attention to power structures and systems of racism. Basquiat's visual poetics were acutely political and direct in their criticism of colonialism.

At the age of 27, Jean-Michel Basquiat died of a heroin overdose at his art studio. Almost two decades later, at a Sotheby's auction, a 1982 painting by Basquiat ("Untitled") sold for $110.5 million, setting a new record high for any American artist at auction. Basquiat's life and work has inspired films at the Toronto International Film Festival, the Sundance Film Festival, and on American Masters (PBS), and his influence even extends to the music and style of many contemporary artists, including hip hop mogul Jay Z. Jean-Michel Basquiat is a true American legend.

PROVENANCE:
Private Collection

DIMENSIONS:
Overall canvas measures approximately 57.5" x 65"


PLEASE NOTE: Lots that do not carry established documented provenance nor any past auction record are described in this catalog as "in the style of". Authentication of the artwork has not been established nor is it implied. Authentication of any stamps or labels has not been established nor is it implied. Pieces are being sold "As Is". No additional information regarding provenance will be provided after the auction.

Definition of "in the style of" is as follows:
The work may be ascribed to the artist on the basis of style, but the actual authorship is unknown.

Overall excellent condition.