Oh, Jean!

So a few months ago, I came across documentary of a young american artist of the 80's.
Now it was a Sunday which means I was partaking in my weekly ritual, of hot tea, incense, homework and SBS.

So I must admit at first I wasn't paying any particular. All I could here was some jazzy music and a sensual french accent, which hey is some beautiful white noise, but white noise never the less.
But as soon as I looked up and met eyes with the sexy and cheeky Jean-Michael Basquiat I was memorized. The white noise I had been vaguely listening to was a description of Jean's life by one of his closest friends and a prestigious french artist (forgive me for not knowing her name.)

Needless to say within a few seconds, they had my attention. I watched on as his muse, a beautiful brunette girl from new york, told of jean's artistic awakening.
Jean started his work as a graffiti artist, on the streets of Brooklyn, scribbling political statements and spreading his message in secret. His works became famous before he did, everyone recognized there unique style and flair. 

Jean Michael then began appearing on the american 'TV party'  show an formed a band with friends. He then started producing more works and participated in The Times Square Show in 1980. He then became one of the faces on the Neo-Expressionist movement. Jean became famous throughtout America and Europe and even dated Madonna for a period of time. 

But of coarse like all good artists, he developed a heroin addiction which eventually lead to his death. He joined the rest of the young renegades in the 27 group.

I became infatuated with Jean, he's cheeky yet shy personality, that beautiful face, and oh of coarse the art. 

To me Jean-Michael's work is perfect, it sits on the fence of being crap and brilliant. He is like Warhol and Picasso rolled together, with a political message, and much more sex appeal.
He is on my list of most inspirational people. 

This is Jean's portrait of Warhol.
(I don't get it either, but i love it!)