Jean-Michel Basquiat’s “Untitled, 1984” typifies his unique, pioneering synthesis of words, symbols and bold fields of paint to comment on man’s self-destructive nature. Born of Haitian and Puerto Rican descent and raised in Brooklyn, Basquiat (1960 – 1988) created deceptively simple-looking works that belied his immense talent and complexity. Initially a graffiti artist, Basquiat hurtled to fame with works that drew from his enormous cultural and visual knowledge, resulting in an entirely fresh art form. He was befriended by Andy Warhol, and the two collaborated on 100 artworks. One of the greatest artists of his generation, Basquiat is among the few internationally renowned Hispanic/African American artists.

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