The highly acclaimed artist and activist Keith Haring was part of the iconic art scene in New York during the 80s’. The American artist was born on 4th May 1958 in Reading, Pennsylvania and started studying at the School of Visuals Arts in New York in 1978. He quickly became a popular figure with his powerful and graffiti inspired art. It all began as a result of the art boom during the 80s’ in New York where there weren't enough ateliers which lead to Haring creating his works on subways filling up empty poster spaces and walls, but in contrast to spray paint graffiti, he used regular chalks. The type of art which was created by Haring and others during this time is known as street art, with Banksy now as the most famous artist in this genre. Being an openly gay artist, Haring’s artworks contain deep personal values and was often characterized by the difficult and precarious situation for homosexuals during this period of time and his œuvre has the feature of heavy productivity and outspoken love messages.

Keith Haring Ignorance = Fear 1989. © Keith Haring Foundation/ Collection Noirmontartproduction, Paris — Keith Haring *Ignorance = Fear* 1989. © Keith Haring Foundation/ Collection Noirmontartproduction, Paris

Keith lived in East Village in New York and among his friends in the underground scene were the likes of Andy Warhol, Madonna and Jean-Michel Basquiat. In fact, for Madonna's wedding with Sean Penn, Keith brought Andy Warhol as his plus one. Haring also collaborated with other musicians, artists, and fashion designers such as Grace Jones, Malcom McLaren and Vivienne Westwood.

Tragically he passed away on 16th February 1990 due to AIDS related diseases, but what a legacy Keith Haring has left. Not only is he remembered for his extreme artistic talent but also as a front figure for human rights!