Jean-Michel Basquiat was a visionary artist who rose to fame in the 1980s and made an indelible mark on the arts and culture that continues to shape our world today.
Basquiat’s life and work reveal many lessons about leadership. Here are three –
– Be yourself: Basquiat did not conform to the expectations or norms of the art world. He developed his style and voice, drawing inspiration from personal experiences and history. He didn’t follow the guidance of critics and never shied away from addressing challenging or controversial topics.
– Borrow: Basquiat pioneered neo-expressionism, which pieced together diverse aesthetic elements ranging from graffiti culture to pop art and abstract expressionism. He pushed the status quo by incorporating and combining materials and techniques in unconventional ways, including collages, oil sticks, spray paint, and found objects. He worked across diverse forms and formats, from music to poetry and film, collaborating with icons like Andy Warhol and Keith Haring.
– Endure: Despite a life filled with obstacles and hardships — from racism and poverty to addiction and struggles dealing with fame — Basquiat was driven by an intrinsic passion, courage, and determination that led to tireless effort and prolific results. He produced thousands of paintings and drawings across his short career, creating an outsized impact.
PHOTO: © LIZZIE HIMMEL ARTWORK: © THE ESTATE OF JEAN-MICHEL BASQUIAT
