By Gordon Durich
Los Angeles, CA (The Hollywood Times) 4/3/23 – Three names epitomize contemporary pop art for this writer: First, Andy Warhol (of course); and second, Keith Haring (for sure) so notable. For one thing, a 1982 painting by Haring (“Untitled”) fetched a record-breaking $110.5 million – arguably the most expensive artworks ever purchased.
“King Pleasure,” a 1987 painting is also the name of a spectacular exhibit of the third artist, Basquiat, now showing in L.A.
Presented by the family of this contemporary art king, King Pleasure about Basquiat is at The Grand LA, in downtown’s cultural core. Jean-Michel Basquiat’s contributions to the history of modern art and his exploration of music, pop culture, the Black experience, literature and more, are showcased in this show through interactive settings. They provide unique insights into the creative world of the prolific New York neo-expressionist, that propelled both social – and cultural – contemporary narratives.
The exhibit features over 200 never-before-seen and rare drawings, paintings, artifacts and objects. There are also multimedia presentations telling Basquiat’s story from an intimate viewpoint, blending his artistic endeavors with his personal life, influences during the time in which he lived and worked, the 1970s and 1980s.
“After a historic run in New York City, we are thrilled to bring the ‘Jean-Michel Basquiat: King Pleasure’ exhibition to Los Angeles, a place where Jean-Michel spent a great deal of time beginning in 1982. Visitors will have the chance to see close to 200 never before and rarely seen paintings, drawings, ephemera and artifacts, all from the family’s estate. The Los Angeles installation reflects the city, a place that Jean-Michel found much inspiration for his work” said Ileen Gallagher of ISG Productions.
The limited Los Angeles engagement runs thru Aug. 31, according to the website. Tickets range from $32 for weekdays to $35 weekends, seniors / students $28, and children 3-13 $25.
The website contains Frequently Asked Questions including hours, art-making activities, information about audio tours (none), parking, closest subway station, and merchandise.
The Grand LA, 100 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012, www.kingpleasure.basquiat.com