Keith Haring
Keith Haring (1958–1990) is one of the most celebrated and widely recognized (graffiti) artists of all time. His iconic imagery emerged on the subway walls of New York City in the early 1980s, breaking the barrier between high art and street art almost overnight. Haring’s art was accessible to the masses, both physically and visually, without pretense or irony and full of optimism.Â
Haring’s distinctive, cartoon-like figures are a defining motif throughout his oeuvre. Thick, confident lines and simple stylized forms create a visual language that is instantly recognizable and accessible to all levels of viewership. Often combined with hypnotic and vibrating hues, Haring's aesthetic evokes a sense of light-heartedness, even when dealing with serious subject matter (such as AIDS or drug addiction)Â