Jean-Michel Basquiat. Fondation Beyeler, through 5 September
Marking the 50th birth anniversary of Jean-Michel Basquiat (1960-1988), an extensive retrospective has been mounted by the Basel-based Fondation Bayler in association with Musée d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris; from Basel the exhibition is travelling on to Paris where it will be on view from autumn 2010.
In all, the show comprises over a hundred paintings, works on paper and objects, on loan from some of the world's leading museums and private collections. The display features all of Jean-Michel Basquiat's textbook works, providing a comprehensive overview of the artist's creative journey and reflecting the role he played in the 20th-century art history. The American painter who died aged 27 from a heroin overdose is considered one of the most fascinating and controversial figures of the art world. The story of his life is vividly depicted in Julian Schnabel's Basquiat biopic. Andy Warhol's protégée, the underground graffiti artist and musician became and international star, the first black artist to reach such heights in the visual arts. Basquiat represented his country at the Venice Biennale and became the youngest ever participant of the highly prestigious documenta contemporary art exhibition. Basquiat's art is distinctive with its images inspired by comic books, anatomic reference books, poetic slogans and vibrant colour schemes.
Fondation Beyeler
101 Baselstrasse
www.beyeler.com




