Jean-Michel Basquiat (1960–1988) was an American artist of Haitian and Puerto Rican descent who gained prominence in the late 20th century for his graffiti-influenced Neo-expressionist paintings. Here are key points about Jean-Michel Basquiat:1. **Early Life:** Jean-Michel Basquiat was born on December 22, 1960, in Brooklyn, New York. He had a multicultural background with a Haitian father and a Puerto Rican mother.2. **Graffiti Art:** Basquiat initially gained attention as a street artist in the late 1970s under the pseudonym "SAMO" (Same Old Shit). He collaborated with Al Diaz in creating graffiti tags and poetic messages around Lower Manhattan.3. **Transition to Fine Art:** Basquiat transitioned from street art to fine art in the early 1980s. He started creating large, expressive paintings on canvas that incorporated a mix of text, symbols, and imagery.4. **Neo-expressionism:** Basquiat became associated with the Neo-expressionist art movement. His works often featured a raw and spontaneous style, addressing social and racial issues, cultural references, and personal experiences.5. **Rapid Rise to Fame:** Basquiat's rise to fame was swift, and he became a prominent figure in the art world during the 1980s. He exhibited alongside established artists and gained recognition for his unique visual language.6. **Collaborations:** Basquiat collaborated with artist Andy Warhol on several works during the 1980s. Their collaborative pieces, known as the "Warhol-Basquiat" collaborations, combined Warhol's pop art sensibility with Basquiat's graffiti-influenced style.7. **Iconic Symbols:** Basquiat's paintings often featured recurring symbols, including crowns, skulls, and references to African-American history. His use of symbols contributed to the layered and symbolic nature of his work.8. **Music and Film:** Apart from his visual art, Basquiat was involved in the music scene. He formed the noise rock band Gray and appeared in the film "Downtown 81," providing a glimpse into the New York City art and music scene of the time.9. **Struggles and Substance Abuse:** Basquiat faced personal struggles, including issues with substance abuse. His life and art reflected the challenges he experienced as a young artist navigating fame and success.10. **Death:** Jean-Michel Basquiat tragically passed away on August 12, 1988, at the age of 27, due to a heroin overdose. His death highlighted the impact of substance abuse in the art world.11. **Legacy:** Basquiat's legacy has endured, and his impact on contemporary art remains significant. His work continues to be celebrated for its energy, social commentary, and the fusion of street art and high art.Jean-Michel Basquiat's contributions to the art world have left an indelible mark, and his influence can be seen in the work of subsequent generations of artists. His short but impactful career is a testament to his talent and the cultural impact of his art.
Measures 29.5 circumference.

Good condition. No major rips, tears, etc.