Glossary

, a prominent American artist of the 1980s, left an indelible mark on the art world with his distinctive style and socially conscious themes. His career exemplified the intersection of art, activism, and popular culture that characterized avant-garde movements of his time.

Haring's unique visual language, characterized by bold lines and vibrant colors, drew inspiration from street culture, comic books, and . His iconic motifs, like the and barking dog, became symbols of social and political activism, addressing issues such as and apartheid.

Life and career of Keith Haring

  • Keith Haring was a prominent American artist known for his distinctive pop art style and socially conscious themes
  • His career spanned the 1980s, during which he became a leading figure in the New York art scene and gained international recognition
  • Haring's life and work exemplify the intersection of art, activism, and popular culture that characterized the avant-garde movements of his time

Early life and education

Top images from around the web for Early life and education

  • Keith Haring - Wikipedia View original

    Is this image relevant?

  • Keith Haring - Wikipedia View original

    Is this image relevant?

  • Keith Haring - Wikipedia View original

    Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Early life and education

  • Keith Haring - Wikipedia View original

    Is this image relevant?

  • Keith Haring - Wikipedia View original

    Is this image relevant?

  • Keith Haring - Wikipedia View original

    Is this image relevant?

1 of 3
  • Born in Reading, Pennsylvania in 1958, Haring grew up in nearby Kutztown
  • Developed an early interest in drawing, influenced by his father who was an amateur cartoonist
  • Attended the Ivy School of Professional Art in Pittsburgh briefly before moving to New York City in 1978
  • Studied at the School of Visual Arts, where he explored various art forms and techniques

Involvement in New York art scene

  • Immersed himself in the vibrant East Village art scene, which was a hub for avant-garde and countercultural movements
  • Began creating chalk drawings on blank advertising panels in subway stations, gaining exposure and popularity
  • Participated in exhibitions at alternative art spaces such as Club 57 and the Mudd Club
  • Developed friendships and collaborations with fellow artists, musicians, and performers, including and

Rise to international fame

  • Haring's unique style and accessible approach to art quickly gained attention from galleries and collectors
  • Held his first solo exhibition at the Tony Shafrazi Gallery in 1982, which launched his career to new heights
  • Participated in numerous international exhibitions and art fairs, including the São Paulo Biennale and the Venice Biennale
  • Created large-scale public murals and installations in cities around the world, such as the in New York City and the Tutti Frutti series in Pisa, Italy
  • Collaborated with brands and celebrities, designing products, album covers, and stage sets

Artistic style and influences

Pop art and graffiti aesthetics

  • Haring's style was heavily influenced by the pop art movement, which embraced popular culture and mass media imagery
  • Incorporated elements of graffiti and , such as bold outlines, vivid colors, and simplified forms
  • Created a distinctive visual language that was instantly recognizable and easily reproducible

Use of bold lines and bright colors

  • Characterized by thick, fluid lines that outlined his figures and shapes
  • Employed a vibrant color palette, often using primary colors and high contrast
  • Created a sense of energy and movement through his dynamic compositions

Influence of street culture

  • Drew inspiration from the urban environment and the diverse subcultures of New York City
  • Incorporated elements of hip-hop, breakdancing, and graffiti into his work
  • Celebrated the vitality and creativity of street life, while also addressing its challenges and inequalities

Inspiration from comic books and cartoons

  • Haring's style was influenced by the simplicity and graphic nature of comic book art
  • Used iconic characters and symbols, such as the radiant baby and the barking dog, which became recurring motifs in his work
  • Created narratives and allegories through the juxtaposition and repetition of these symbols

Iconic motifs and symbols

Radiant baby

  • One of Haring's most recognizable and enduring symbols, featuring a crawling infant with lines radiating from its body
  • Represents innocence, purity, and the potential for human growth and enlightenment
  • Appeared in numerous variations throughout Haring's career, often combined with other symbols or themes

Barking dog

  • Another recurring motif in Haring's work, depicting a simplified dog with an open mouth
  • Symbolizes authority, aggression, and the abuse of power
  • Often used to critique social and political issues, such as police brutality and government corruption

Dancing figures

  • Haring frequently depicted human figures in various poses of dance and movement
  • Celebrates the joy, freedom, and unity of human expression
  • Reflects the influence of hip-hop and breakdancing culture on Haring's work
  • Often arranged in patterns or linked together to create a sense of community and interconnectedness

Three-eyed face

  • A stylized human face with three eyes, which became another iconic symbol in Haring's art
  • Represents wisdom, insight, and the ability to see beyond the surface of things
  • Often used to convey messages of social and spiritual awakening

Social and political activism

HIV/AIDS awareness and advocacy

  • Haring was a prominent advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness and support, having been diagnosed with the disease himself in 1988
  • Created numerous works that addressed the stigma and discrimination faced by people living with HIV/AIDS
  • Participated in fundraising events and campaigns to support research and care for those affected by the epidemic
  • Established the Keith Haring Foundation in 1989 to continue his philanthropic work and preserve his artistic legacy

Anti-apartheid movement

  • Haring was a vocal critic of the apartheid system in South Africa and used his art to raise awareness about the struggle for racial equality
  • Created a series of works that depicted the violence and oppression faced by black South Africans, such as the painting "Free South Africa"
  • Participated in protests and boycotts against companies and institutions that supported the apartheid regime

Crack is Wack mural

  • In 1986, Haring painted a large-scale mural on the wall of a handball court in East Harlem, New York, titled "Crack is Wack"
  • The mural was a response to the crack cocaine epidemic that was devastating inner-city communities at the time
  • Depicted a stylized figure smoking a crack pipe, surrounded by Haring's signature symbols and motifs
  • Became a landmark and a symbol of the fight against drug addiction and its social consequences

Pop Shop and accessibility of art

  • In 1986, Haring opened , a retail store in New York City that sold affordable merchandise featuring his artwork
  • The shop was designed to make his art accessible to a wider audience and to challenge the elitism of the art world
  • Offered t-shirts, posters, buttons, and other items that allowed people to own a piece of Haring's work at a reasonable price
  • Reflected Haring's belief in the democratization of art and his desire to break down barriers between art and everyday life

Collaborations and commissions

Murals and public installations

  • Throughout his career, Haring created numerous large-scale around the world
  • Notable examples include the Crack is Wack mural in New York, the Tutti Frutti series in Pisa, Italy, and the Collingwood mural in Melbourne, Australia
  • Often worked with local communities and organizations to create site-specific works that reflected the culture and history of the area
  • Used his to raise awareness about social and political issues, such as AIDS, drug addiction, and environmental conservation

Fashion and product design

  • Haring collaborated with various fashion brands and designers to create clothing and accessories featuring his artwork
  • Notable collaborations include a line of t-shirts and sweatshirts with Malcolm McLaren and Vivienne Westwood, and a series of watches with Swatch
  • Designed album covers and stage sets for musicians such as Grace Jones, David Bowie, and Madonna
  • Created a line of toys and figurines based on his iconic characters and symbols

Music and dance collaborations

  • Haring had a deep interest in music and dance, and frequently collaborated with artists from these fields
  • Worked with choreographer Bill T. Jones on several dance performances, creating sets and costumes that integrated his visual style
  • Collaborated with DJ and producer Junior Vasquez on music videos and live performances that combined Haring's art with house music and club culture
  • Participated in the 1984 Paradise Garage closing party, creating a large-scale mural that served as a backdrop for the event

Legacy and impact on art world

Influence on street art and graffiti

  • Haring's work helped to legitimize street art and graffiti as valid forms of artistic expression
  • His use of public spaces and accessible imagery inspired a generation of artists to create work that engaged with the urban environment and social issues
  • Haring's collaborations with graffiti artists such as LA II (Angel Ortiz) helped to bridge the gap between the street art and fine art worlds

Popularization of art merchandise

  • The success of Haring's Pop Shop and his numerous product collaborations helped to popularize the idea of art merchandise as a legitimate form of creative expression
  • Haring's approach to merchandising challenged traditional notions of art as a rarified and exclusive commodity
  • The proliferation of Haring-themed products and reproductions has made his work widely recognizable and accessible to a broad audience

Haring's enduring popularity and recognition

  • Haring's distinctive style and socially conscious themes have ensured his continued relevance and popularity in the decades since his
  • His work has been celebrated and referenced by numerous artists, designers, and cultural figures, from Banksy to Kanye West
  • Haring's art has become a ubiquitous part of popular culture, appearing on everything from t-shirts to skateboards to mobile apps

Posthumous exhibitions and collections

  • Since Haring's death from AIDS-related complications in 1990, his work has been the subject of numerous retrospectives and exhibitions around the world
  • Notable examples include the Whitney Museum's "Keith Haring: 1978-1982" exhibition in 2012, and the Tate Liverpool's "Keith Haring" exhibition in 2019
  • Haring's work is held in the collections of major museums and institutions, such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Centre Pompidou in Paris, and the Albertina in Vienna
  • The Keith Haring Foundation, established in 1989, continues to manage the artist's estate and promote his legacy through exhibitions, publications, and charitable initiatives

Key Terms to Review (26)

Acrylic paint: Acrylic paint is a fast-drying paint made of pigment suspended in acrylic polymer emulsion, which allows it to be diluted with water but becomes water-resistant when dry. This medium is known for its versatility, as it can mimic the effects of both oil and watercolor paints while also providing bright, vibrant colors. Its rapid drying time allows artists to layer colors quickly and work in mixed media.
Andy Warhol: Andy Warhol was a leading figure in the Pop Art movement, known for his unique approach to art that blended fine art with commercial techniques and themes from mass media and consumer culture. His works often featured celebrities, everyday objects, and mass-produced items, challenging traditional notions of art and authorship while reflecting the growing influence of media in society.
Anti-apartheid: Anti-apartheid refers to the movement and actions taken to oppose and dismantle the system of apartheid in South Africa, which enforced racial segregation and discrimination against non-white citizens. This struggle encompassed various forms of resistance, including political activism, protests, and art that highlighted the injustices faced by those under apartheid. The anti-apartheid movement not only aimed to end racial oppression in South Africa but also inspired global solidarity against injustice and inequality.
Anti-apartheid movement: The anti-apartheid movement was a global campaign aimed at ending the system of institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination known as apartheid in South Africa. This movement mobilized various groups, including political organizations, activists, and artists, to advocate for the rights of the oppressed black majority and to dismantle apartheid laws that upheld white minority rule.
Art against aids: Art against AIDS refers to the collective efforts of artists and art communities to raise awareness, promote education, and support individuals affected by HIV/AIDS through creative expression. This movement emerged in the 1980s as a response to the AIDS crisis, utilizing visual art, performance, and activism to combat stigma and encourage compassion and understanding toward those living with the disease.
Community engagement: Community engagement refers to the process by which individuals and groups from a community work collaboratively to address issues that are important to them. This concept emphasizes active participation, fostering dialogue, and building relationships between artists, organizations, and the public. It often involves creative practices that encourage social interaction and collective expression.
Crack is wack mural: The 'crack is wack mural' is a famous public artwork created by artist Keith Haring in 1986, designed to raise awareness about drug addiction and its devastating effects on society. Located in Harlem, New York City, the mural features Haring's signature bold lines and colorful figures, conveying a strong anti-drug message. The mural not only reflects Haring's commitment to social issues but also exemplifies the intersection of art and activism during the 1980s.
Cultural commentary: Cultural commentary refers to the analysis, critique, or interpretation of cultural phenomena, often addressing social issues, politics, and identity through various forms of art. It serves as a means for artists to engage with and reflect upon the world around them, often challenging societal norms or provoking thought about contemporary issues. By using visual language or media, cultural commentary can convey powerful messages that resonate with audiences, making art a tool for social change.
Dancing figures: Dancing figures refer to the iconic, stylized human forms often depicted in the artworks of Keith Haring, characterized by their energetic poses and vibrant outlines. These figures symbolize joy, movement, and a sense of community, often conveying themes related to social issues like love, unity, and the struggles of marginalized groups. The simplicity of the figures combined with their dynamic qualities reflects Haring's intention to make art accessible and engaging for everyone.
Death: Death is the permanent cessation of all biological functions that sustain a living organism. In the context of art, it often represents themes of mortality, the human experience, and the impact of loss, serving as a powerful symbol in various artistic expressions. It can evoke emotions and provoke thoughts about life, existence, and what comes after, often reflecting cultural attitudes towards mortality.
Fashion and product design: Fashion and product design refers to the creative process of designing clothing, accessories, and other consumer goods that are not only functional but also aesthetically appealing. This term encompasses the artistic, cultural, and social dimensions of design, which can express identity and influence trends within various communities. It bridges personal expression and market demand, connecting designers to consumers in a dynamic relationship.
Gay rights: Gay rights refers to the civil rights and social justice movements aimed at achieving equal treatment, acceptance, and legal protections for individuals who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, or queer. These rights encompass various issues such as marriage equality, anti-discrimination protections, and the right to serve openly in the military. The gay rights movement has evolved significantly over the decades, often intersecting with other social justice movements and cultural expressions.
Graffiti: Graffiti is a form of visual art that involves the unauthorized marking or painting on public surfaces, often conveying political, social, or personal messages. This art form is characterized by its vibrant colors, unique styles, and often provocative content, making it a significant aspect of urban culture and expression.
Hiv/aids awareness: HIV/AIDS awareness refers to the understanding and knowledge about HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) and AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), including transmission, prevention, treatment, and the social stigma surrounding the disease. This awareness plays a crucial role in combating misinformation, reducing stigma, and promoting safe practices, ultimately leading to better health outcomes for individuals affected by HIV/AIDS. Public awareness campaigns have been vital in addressing the epidemic since the 1980s, impacting art, culture, and activism.
Identity: Identity refers to the qualities, beliefs, personality, looks, and expressions that make a person or group distinct. It encompasses individual and collective aspects that shape how one sees themselves and how they are perceived by others, often addressing themes of culture, gender, race, and personal history.
Jean-Michel Basquiat: Jean-Michel Basquiat was a renowned American artist known for his raw and expressive graffiti-inspired artwork that emerged in the late 20th century. He became a leading figure in the Neo-Expressionism movement, blending elements of street art, primitive symbolism, and African-American cultural themes, while critiquing social issues like race and class. His collaboration with other artists, particularly Andy Warhol, also highlights the intersection of street culture and the fine art world.
Keith Haring: Keith Haring was an American artist and social activist known for his bold, graphic style and iconic imagery that emerged from the street culture of New York City in the early 1980s. His work often addressed social issues such as AIDS awareness, LGBTQ+ rights, and anti-apartheid activism, using vibrant colors and simple lines to create memorable visual messages. Haring's art, which resonates with a sense of urgency and optimism, has made a significant impact on contemporary art and popular culture.
Love: Love is an intense feeling of deep affection, attachment, and care towards someone or something. In the context of art and expression, love often transcends mere emotion, becoming a powerful force that drives creativity and social commentary. It can manifest in various forms such as romantic love, platonic love, or love for humanity, and often acts as a catalyst for change and activism.
Murals and public installations: Murals and public installations are large-scale artworks created in public spaces that engage with the community and reflect cultural narratives. These artworks often serve as a means of social commentary, beautification, or cultural expression, breaking down barriers between art and everyday life. They can be found in urban environments, enriching the landscape and inviting viewer interaction.
Music and dance collaborations: Music and dance collaborations refer to artistic partnerships where musicians and dancers work together to create a unified performance that combines both musical and choreographic elements. These collaborations often enhance the emotional impact of the performance, allowing the audience to experience a multisensory event that blurs the lines between different forms of art.
Pop Art: Pop Art is an art movement that emerged in the mid-20th century, characterized by its focus on popular culture, mass media, and consumerism, often using imagery from advertising, comic books, and everyday objects. This movement sought to blur the boundaries between fine art and commercial art, reflecting the post-war society's fascination with consumer goods and the visual language of mass production.
Public art: Public art refers to artwork that is created for and installed in public spaces, accessible to everyone. It serves to engage communities, provoke thought, and beautify environments, often reflecting cultural, social, or political themes. Public art can take many forms, including murals, sculptures, and installations, and is often a collaboration between artists and communities.
Radiant baby: The radiant baby is a key symbol created by artist Keith Haring, representing innocence, purity, and the universal potential of every child. This iconic image is characterized by a crawling baby outlined in thick black lines and often surrounded by vibrant colors and energetic motifs. The radiant baby embodies Haring's belief in the power of art to communicate social issues and convey a message of hope and love, particularly in the context of AIDS awareness and LGBTQ rights.
Social activism: Social activism refers to efforts aimed at promoting, impeding, or directing social, political, economic, or environmental change. It often involves collective action and grassroots movements that seek to address social injustices, raise awareness, and mobilize communities for a cause. This type of activism is often expressed through various forms of art, media, and public demonstrations to engage a broader audience and push for change.
Street art: Street art refers to visual art created in public locations, often without official permission, that aims to engage and provoke thought among viewers. This form of expression encompasses a variety of mediums, including graffiti, stencils, stickers, and murals, and often addresses social, political, or cultural themes. Street art stands out for its accessibility, breaking barriers between artist and audience while transforming urban spaces into dynamic galleries.
The pop shop: The pop shop was a retail space and cultural hub created by artist Keith Haring in the 1980s, aimed at making art accessible to everyone. It served as a store for Haring's artwork, merchandise, and community events, bridging the gap between commercialism and artistic expression. This unique concept not only promoted Haring's art but also fostered a sense of community engagement and activism around social issues like AIDS awareness and LGBTQ rights.
© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.
AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.
Back
Practice QuizGlossary
Practice QuizGlossary
Next guide