keith haring

when the day-to-day becomes a drag of monotony and chores, it's time to pull the kids out of school and go for a long drive. somewhere that is fun and inspiring to feed your life with renewed energy and ideas. this time we took a trip to san francisco to catch the keith haring exhibit at the de young museum.

 these are some of  keith's strong political images from early to late 80's (he died 1989, age 31)

many of these works were painted on vinyl tarps with vinyl paint and just as vibrant and meaningful today

 he drew with permanent marker on this taxi cab hood

i noticed some of his other works on paper were faded and buckling. i don't think it mattered to him what art supplies he used and whether they were  archival or acid free. it seems that he was compulsive and full of energy and life. he knew his days were numbered and he took advantage of every minute of every day.

 

keith did a series of subway drawings in chalk on black (now fading) construction paper all over nyc in the mid 80's. the original advertising frames were kept intact and they are fantastic!

his views on religion and media monstrosities

 an ode to basquiat

and warhol

my favorite painting 'the last rainforest' was completed just a few months before keith haring died of aids. there are 3 layers, a red ground, covered with yellow heiroglyphics and black painted imagery of twisting demons and mythical creatures...like an apocalypse. but notice the cute little baby buddha protected in the bubble near the top center. this little spiritual icon may suggest the possibilities of enlightenment, love and keith's hope for a positive future.
Today is the final day of the show and also marks the anniversary of his passing, 25 years ago.
“Breathe. Let go. And remind yourself that this very moment is the only one you know you have for sure.” Keith Haring