Jean-Michel Basquiat - his unique art and influence on streetwear

Known for his critical work and unique aesthetics, Jean-Michel Basquiat was a New York artist with roots in graffiti. Early on, Basquiat began to spread his works throughout the city of Manhattan, quickly becoming known for using the term 'SAMO' or 'SAMO shit' - which means "same old shit" - always bringing strong messages in his graffiti and tags, awakening people's curiosity.
In December 1978, the Village Voice published an article about Basquiat's writings, which led to the term 'SAMO' becoming popular, causing the artist to "kill" his own work with "SAMO is dead," spray-painted on a wall in SoHo.

A few years later, after appearing on some TV shows, Basquiat founded the band Gray, along with musician and actor Vincent Gallo. Some rare songs by the band are part of the soundtrack for the film Downtown 81.
In 1980, Basquiat gained greater recognition after participating in The Times Square Show, an exhibition that featured various artists and was sponsored by an institution called 'Colab'. A year later, art critic Rene Ricard published an article about Basquiat, boosting his fame to an international level, which led the artist to work and exhibit alongside famous artists like Keith Haring, Barbara Kruger, and Andy Warhol, with whom he became friends and collaborated several times.
In 1985, Basquiat was on the cover of The New York Times, in an article dedicated entirely to him, resulting in exhibitions in major European capitals.

In 1987, at the invitation of Japanese designer Rei Kawakubo, Basquiat walked the runway for the spring/summer collection of Comme dês Garçons, wearing tailored suits in shades of gray.

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On August 12, 1988, Basquiat passed away in his studio, having overdosed on "speedball," a mixed drug of cocaine and heroin.
To honor the American artist,  the film Traces of a Life tells part of his biography, showcasing his work in art galleries, romantic relationships, friendships, and fame.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sXMJmU-M9sM&w=1280&h=720]
Various brands like Supreme, Komono, Neff, Reebok, AMP, among others, continue to honor Basquiat's work and promote his art.

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Basquiat is a renowned artist who continues to influence the behavior of various young people and creators to this day, with a timeless work that, in a simplified manner, showcases the purest form of art.
"Believe it or not, I can actually draw."
 

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