The febrile art scene that arose in New York’s East Village in the 1980s has produced some of the most significant artists of the late 20th century. Nan Goldin, Jeff Koons, Jenny Holzer and David Wojnarowicz are all alumni of this creative downtown community, which sprung up outside of the art establishment but became recognised as an era-defining moment in modern art and popular culture. 

Two of the most important figures to emerge from this hotbed of activity were Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring. In an extraordinary world premiere exhibition, the National Gallery of Victoria is presenting the work of these hugely influential artists in a comprehensive career-spanning exhibition.  

Keith Haring | Jean-Michel Basquiat: Crossing Lines allows insights into the intersections between the lives, practice, politics and visual language of these two iconic artists and their work, which remains as prescient and important as ever. Guest curator Dr. Dieter Buchhart remarked, “Haring and Basquiat are among the most influential artists of not only the 1980s but more broadly, of our time and relevant to global youth culture.“

Although, tragically, neither Basquiat or Haring had long lives they were both prolific in the limited time they had. Crossing Lines, which features over 200 artworks, includes examples of their work from the streets and subway stations of New York City and early collaborations, alongside highlights from each artist’s breakthrough exhibitions and many of their most acclaimed artworks. The exhibition also takes a broader look at the East Village scene and its leading figures, including Andy Warhol, Madonna and Grace Jones.

Keith Haring | Jean-Michel Basquiat: Crossing Lines is showing at the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne until 13th April 2020