Keith Haring
The early symbols in Haring's work were both whimsical and powerful. They included outlined human figures, barking dogs, babies, flying saucers, pyramids, penisesand radiant lines symbolizing energy and movement. These symbols were imbued with layers of meaning, often invoking a sense of societal commentary or personal expression.
KEITH HARING CREATED HIS OWN ICONIC LANGUAGE
Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat were prominent figures in the contemporary art scene of the 1980s. They set themselves apart from the contemporary "graffiti artists" of their time by developing a rigorous studio practice that incorporated art historical references and embraced conceptual theory. Their approach not only involved creating art on the streets but also delving into the intellectual realm of non-linear textual explorations, influenced by thinkers like William S. Burroughs, Brion Gysin, Roland Barthesand Umberto Eco.
In the early stages of their artistic journeys, both Haring and Basquiat focused on literal explorations of language. They engaged in non-linear textual studies, experimenting on paperand delving into the world of video art. These early works were an attempt to infuse their art with meaning and depth, reflecting their profound intellectual curiosity.
Keith Haring's art eventually evolved into a system of universal symbols. Drawing inspiration from a wide range of cultural influences, including Western, African, Asianand Pre-Columbian art, he developed a non-verbal language that transcended cultural boundaries. This language was designed to communicate with viewers on a visceral level, irrespective of their native culture.
The early symbols in Haring's work were both whimsical and powerful. They included outlined human figures, barking dogs, babies, flying saucers, pyramids, penisesand radiant lines symbolizing energy and movement. These symbols were imbued with layers of meaning, often invoking a sense of societal commentary or personal expression.
Haring's process of creation was an organic one. He described how he bought a roll of oak-tag paper and started working on a series of drawings. What began as abstract compositions soon gave way to the emergence of these symbolic figures. In these drawings, humans and animals coexisted in various combinations. Flying saucers zapped humansand dogs were worshipped or targeted by these enigmatic extraterrestrial objects.
Haring's art became a means of communication, a visual vocabulary that spoke to a wide audience. He aimed to convey powerful messages and stories through these symbols. Each symbol represented a part of his narrative, encompassing themes of human interaction, societal critiqueand personal expression.
Haring's decision to take his art to the streets was driven by the realization that he had something important to say. His symbols were no longer confined to the studio; they needed to be shared with the public. His street art became a form of public dialogue, a means of engaging with people from all walks of life. Keith Haring's work serves as a testament to the power of art to transcend linguistic and cultural barriers, communicating messages that are universally understood and appreciated.
"I bought a roll of oak-tag paper and cut it up and put it all over the floor and worked on this whole group of drawings. The first few were abstracts, but then these images started coming. They were humans and animals in different combinations. Then flying saucers were zapping the humans. I remember trying to figure out where this stuff came from, but I have no idea. It just grew into this group of drawings. I was thinking about these images as symbols, as a vocabulary of things. In one a dog’s being worshipped by these people. In another one the dog is being zapped by a flying saucer. Suddenly it made sense to draw on the street, because I had something to say."
- Keith Haring Interview with David Sheff, Rolling Stone, August 1989
