Jean-Michel Basquiat and Andy Warhol, renowned figures in the 1980s New York art scene, shared a remarkable journey from mutual respect to close friendship. After being acquainted for some time, on October 4, 1982, the two were formally introduced at Warhol’s Factory by gallerist Bruno Bischofberger. Captured in the famous “Dos Cabezas” portrait, this meeting paved the way for what ultimately resulted in one of the most iconic collaborations of the 20th century.
Just last week, The Brant Foundation unveiled an extraordinary exhibition titled “Basquiat x Warhol”––a powerful tribute to their joint works. Curated by Dr. Dieter Buchhart and Peter M. Brant with Dr. Anna Karina Hofbauer, this exhibition is displayed at the Foundation’s East Village location until January 7, 2024, marking the first New York City showcase in 25 years. After making its debut at the Fondation Louis Vuitton in Paris, this remarkable showing reunites these two influential artists and their synergetic masterpieces in New York after over two decades.
Demonstrating a fusion of their distinct styles, the duo produced over 160 canvases that transcend artistic generations and genres. Basquiat and Warhol touched upon socio-political topics, exploring the interpersonal effects of the AIDS epidemic in the 1980s, police brutality, colonialism, and gentrification.
The Brant Foundation’s “Basquiat x Warhol” rekindles the artists’ shared inspirations, mutual trust, and profound political concerns that shaped their collective projects. Viewers will gain first-hand exposure to Basquiat’s and Warhol’s enduring impacts on contemporary art.
Tickets for November 1 – December 8 are available now. Tickets for December 9 – January 7 will be released on November 13.
