Jean-Michel Basquiat’s Family Will Exhibit an Unseen Collection of His Art
Featuring over 200 multi-dimensional and rare pieces.
The family of Jean-Michel Basquiat will present an exhibition of the revered artist’s work for the very first time. Titled “Jean-Michel Basquiat: King Pleasure” the exhibition will feature a multi-dimensional collection of over 200 never-before and rarely-seen artworks.
The exhibited works include paintings, drawings, multimedia presentations, ephemera and artifacts. Only his family can paint such an intimate portrait of the late artist, who captured the world’s gaze through his cultural musings. The exhibition was conceptualized by his sisters Lisane Basquiat and Jeanine Heriveaux, who run Basquiat’s Estate along with their stepmother, Nora Fitzpatrick.
“We wanted to bring his work and personality forward, in a way only his family can, for people to immerse themselves in,” Lisane said. “We want this to be a multi-dimensional celebration of Jean-Michel’s life.”
As the late artist originated and operated in New York City, it only makes sense that the exhibition take place in his hometown. But Basquiat and his work were not only cornerstones of New York City culture — he also inspired the wider art world. A boundary-defying and inherently analytical artist, Basquiat’s legacy has had a lasting impact around the world. These soon-to-be-released works highlight the intersectionality of the Black experience, music, pop culture, literature and more.
“This exhibition showcasing the man behind the icon has been years in the making, from the initial idea in 2017 around the 30th anniversary of Jean-Michel’s passing to now,” Jeanine said. “There’s been many exhibitions of Jean-Michel’s work, but never told from the perspective of the family – Jean-Michel as a child, a man, a son, and a brother. As we were all in lockdown, we said: ‘Maybe now is the right time.’”
“Jean-Michel Basquiat: King Pleasure” will open in early spring 2022 at the Starrett-Lehigh Building, with Spotify and Phillips serving as participating sponsors.
In other Basquiat news, check out the most recent sale of a painting from the late artist.
