Jean-Michel Basquiat

Neo-expressionist prodigy who redefined contemporary art through streetwise social commentary

Before dying at 27, Jean-Michel Basquiat (1960-1988) shattered art-world elitism by merging neo-expressionism with SAMO© graffiti poetry. His crown motif – bestowed on jazz heroes and boxers – became an icon of Black intellectual royalty.

Works like ‘Defacement’ (1983) confronted police brutality through fragmented text and visceral imagery. Collaborations with Andy Warhol bridged underground and establishment scenes, though critics dismissed him as ‘Warhol’s mascot’ – a racist narrative later overturned.