Review | Basquiat : KING PLEASURE Exhibit, Photo Credit: Enrique Bautista
Los Angeles, the ultimate hotspot for creative minds, ain’t just a city – we’re a whole vibe. It’s where artists, musicians, designers, actors, and actresses, who weren’t necessarily Cali-born, come to catch their big break under that almost-always-sunny sky. It’s all about the dope weather in the City of Angels, perfect for sparking that creative juice. Most big-shot artists slide into LA once they’ve hit it big, ready to splurge on that lavish lifestyle they’ve dreamed of. But let’s keep it a glass of water, not everyone is on that same wave. Among them, Andre 3000 from the hip-hop duo OUTKAST found his muse in the laid-back vibes of Venice Beach, a choice that mirrors the journey of the legendary Jean-Michel Basquiat.
Review | Basquiat : KING PLEASURE Exhibit
My understanding of their parallel paths deepened during my visit to the Los Angeles exhibit “Jean-Michel Basquiat: King Pleasure”, a captivating showcase curated by Basquiat’s estate. This exhibit, featuring over 200 previously unseen works, was a profound revelation of Basquiat’s unique storytelling prowess through his art.
Review | Basquiat : KING PLEASURE Exhibit, Photo Credit: Enrique Bautista
The warmth and welcoming nature of the exhibit’s hosts immediately struck me upon arrival. In stark contrast to the typical solemn atmosphere of art galleries, these individuals created an inviting and personable experience. They swiftly attended to entry formalities while engaging in genuine conversation about my day, a refreshing human touch in the often-impersonal world of art viewing. As I stepped into the exhibit, another gracious host greeted me, offering insights into the exhibit and complimenting my outfit, further enhancing the hospitable environment.
Review | Basquiat : KING PLEASURE Exhibit, Photo Credit: Enrique Bautista
Review | Basquiat : KING PLEASURE Exhibit, Photo Credit: Enrique Bautista
The exhibit unfolded across four thoughtfully curated galleries, each one a chapter in the story of Basquiat’s artistic evolution. The journey began with a detailed map of Brooklyn, highlighting locations significant to Basquiat’s upbringing and family life. This section offered a glimpse into his personal history: his Haitian father, Gerard, and his Puerto Rican mother, Matilde, who played pivotal roles in shaping his worldview and artistic sensibilities. Basquiat, the eldest of three siblings, grew up in an environment rich in cultural diversity, a theme that resonated deeply with me as it mirrored my own upbringing.
Review | Basquiat : KING PLEASURE Exhibit, Photo Credit: Enrique Bautista
Review | Basquiat : KING PLEASURE Exhibit, Photo Credit: Enrique Bautista
The first gallery painted a vivid picture of Basquiat’s early influences. Scenes recreating his childhood home, complete with a family dining table and a well-stocked seasoning rack reminiscent of McCormick spices, evoked a sense of familiarity and nostalgia. It was a powerful connection, bridging the gap between Basquiat’s experiences and my own. His childhood friendships, notably with Mark Prozzo and later Al Diaz, were highlighted as pivotal moments in his artistic journey. These relationships, formed in the creative melting pot of Brooklyn, were instrumental in shaping his distinctive style – a fusion of childlike simplicity and profound storytelling.
Review | Basquiat : KING PLEASURE Exhibit, Photo Credit: Enrique Bautista
Review | Basquiat : KING PLEASURE Exhibit, Photo Credit: Enrique Bautista
As I wandered through the second and third galleries, Basquiat’s broad range of influences became increasingly apparent. His fascination with African art and culture was a recurring theme, manifesting in his artwork through stylized faces and heads, often featuring exaggerated teeth and prominent features. These elements were not merely artistic choices; they were potent political statements, challenging the misrepresentation of Black people in Western art and celebrating Black identity and culture. His art was a visual dialogue, interweaving references to music, cartoons, and film, breaking down the barriers between highbrow and lowbrow culture. This approach, revolutionary for its time, mirrored the cultural dynamism of 1980s New York City.
Review | Basquiat : KING PLEASURE Exhibit, Photo Credit: Enrique Bautista
Review | Basquiat : KING PLEASURE Exhibit, Photo Credit: Enrique Bautista
In these galleries, the presence of cartoon references – particularly Rocky & Bullwinkle – underscored Basquiat’s playful yet insightful exploration of popular culture. His incorporation of anatomy and physiology into his art was another notable aspect, reflecting his deep interest in the human form and its variations, especially within the Black community. This exploration was more than an artistic endeavor; it was a celebration of diversity and a challenge to conventional beauty standards.
Review | Basquiat : KING PLEASURE Exhibit, Photo Credit: Enrique Bautista
Review | Basquiat : KING PLEASURE Exhibit, Photo Credit: Enrique Bautista
The final gallery was a sensory overload, designed to replicate a bar Basquiat had been commissioned to decorate. The soundscape of diverse music genres enveloped me, demonstrating the profound influence of music on Basquiat’s art. From rock and soul to jazz, pop, and hip-hop, each genre left its mark on his work, evident in the vibrant colors and playful shapes reminiscent of musical frequencies. This immersive environment, evoking the spirit of iconic 80s clubs like Studio 54, The Mudd Club, and AREA Club, was a fitting tribute to Basquiat’s multifaceted inspirations.
Review | Basquiat : KING PLEASURE Exhibit
Throughout the exhibit, the narrative of Basquiat’s life unfolded through his artwork and personal artifacts. Unlike conventional galleries which often feel sterile and detached, this exhibit felt intimate and personal, akin to exploring a beloved family member’s home. The display of Basquiat’s preferred materials – from wood supports to oil and acrylic on various canvases – offered insight into his creative process and the evolution of his artistic style. His early works, created out of necessity using available materials, were particularly moving. They reflected not only his humble beginnings but also the resourcefulness and determination that propelled his career from the streets of Brooklyn to the studios of Manhattan.
Review | Basquiat : KING PLEASURE Exhibit, Photo Credit: Enrique Bautista
Review | Basquiat : KING PLEASURE Exhibit, Photo Credit: Enrique Bautista
The exhibit also delved into Basquiat’s relationship with Andy Warhol, a significant influence in his life and art. This connection highlighted the intersection of different artistic worlds and the mutual inspiration that flowed between these two iconic figures. The narrative concluded with an overview of Basquiat’s legacy, preserved, and promoted by his family. With an estate valued at over $150 million, they ensure that Basquiat’s story is told authentically, honoring his vision and impact on the art world.
Review | Basquiat : KING PLEASURE Exhibit, Photo Credit: Enrique Bautista
“Jean-Michel Basquiat: King Pleasure” is more than an art exhibit; it is a journey through the life of a remarkable artist whose vision transcended the boundaries of his time. It is a testament to the power of creativity and the enduring impact of one’s cultural heritage. This exhibit not only celebrates Basquiat’s artistic genius but also offers a profound insight into the experiences and influences that shaped his work. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in the intersection of art, culture, and history, and an inspirational experience for those who aspire to follow in the footsteps of such a visionary artist. My visit to this exhibit was not just an exploration of Basquiat’s art; it was a journey into the heart of a creative soul who transformed his dreams into reality, leaving his mark on the world of art, and a message calling for justice that still resonates today.
Review | Basquiat : KING PLEASURE Exhibit, Photo Credit: Enrique Bautista
Review | Basquiat : KING PLEASURE Exhibit, Photo Credit: Enrique Bautista
The Jean-Michel Basquiat: King Pleasure exhibit has been extended until January 1, 2024!
