Keith Haring

Keith Haring became a leading figure in the New York contemporary art scene, known for his distinctive graffiti and cartoon-inspired artwork. After high school, he studied commercial art in Pittsburgh before moving to New York City in 1978 to attend the School of Visual Arts, where he formed a close bond with artist Kenny Scharf. Haring began experimenting with graffiti, first painting on subway walls, and developed his signature style of chaotic, puzzle-like images reflecting American life. His work often featured bold borders and playful, cartoonish elements.
In 1982, Haring had his first exhibition at the Tony Shafrazi Gallery in New York, marking his rise to fame. A major retrospective was held at the Whitney Museum in 1997.