Keith Haring

Keith Haring

            Inspired by the graffiti artworks within New York City, Keith Haring created murals and other artworks that revolved around human figures with thick lines and bright colors.  These cartoonish figures are very distinct to Keith Haring’s style, who works with the themes of birth, death, and war.  Although Haring started out painting murals on walls, he began working with canvas, as well as using his art for commercial purposes.  He painted singer Grace Jones one of her music videos, and he designed a jacket for Madonna to wear during a performance.  One of Keith Haring’s most famous murals is the “Crack is Wack” mural in New York City, which features his iconic figures.

            Keith Haring inspires me because he worked hard to raise awareness about things such as AIDS and the use of crack cocaine through his art.  I like that he did positive things with his artwork.  Also, his style is so recognizable that it is extremely marketable.  Merchandise began appearing and selling very well, which promoted his artwork even more.  Haring did several murals, and I like that they are consistent, and you can always tell that it is Keith Haring’s style when you see the mural, even he did not sign it.  Public art was something that inspired Keith Haring, and so he created art that reflected this, and was also displayed in public places.