Jean-Michel Basquiat Handbook

This book is produced in collaboration with the family and estate of Jean-Michel Basquiat. It serves as an introduction to a groundbreaking artistry that came to redefine contemporary art in the late 20th century.

The book begins with a chronological account of Basquiat's life - from his upbringing in Brooklyn and teenage graffiti to his global breakthrough and early death at the age of 27. This is followed by a thematic reading of his work, in which recurring motifs such as the urban environment, the body, music, sports and cultural symbol systems are put in relation to his artistic expression.

Finally, the book contains excerpts from notebooks, a brief biography and essays by Henry Geldzahler and Henry Louis Gates Jr. The perspective is analytical but accessible, with the ambition to both introduce and deepen.