Jean-Michel Basquiat': Great Art Explained

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In 1982 at the age of just 22 years old, Jean-Michel Basquiat would produce this painting. A powerful and dazzling image that mixes text, colour, symbolism and mark-making in a raw and uncensored explosion.
In a single painting, he would use his instinctive power of visual language to say everything he wanted to say. About America - about art - and about being black in both worlds.
"What a brilliant series this is" - Stephen Fry on Twitter 12 December 2020
"Thoroughly researched and cleverly presented, with stunning visuals, Great Art Explained makes you realise that familiarity with a work of art sometimes makes us indifferent to its power" - Forbes Magazine, 9 July 2020
CREDITS
These videos are for educational purposes ONLY
Thanks to Charles Xue for Chinese subtitles
Thanks to Bart Vergouwe for Portugese Subtitles.
Thanks to Giuliana Tomio for Spanish Subtitles
All the videos, songs, images, and graphics used in the video belong to their respective owners and I or this channel does not claim any right over them.
Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act of 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.
IMAGES
Jean-Michel Basquiat and Madonna ©Glenn O'Brien
Andy Warhol images © The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc.
Jean-Michel Basquiat, Debbie Harry, and William S. Burroughs in December 1986. ©Victor Bockris
Images of Basquiat ©Roland Hagenberg
Basquiat in the apartment, 1981. ©Alexis Adler.
Andy Warhol and Jean Michael Basquiat photographed in New York, 10 July 1985. Image: © MICHAEL HALSBAND/Landov
Jean-Michel Basquiat wearing Giorgio Armani, seating in front of his work. Photograph: Lizzie Himmel/AP/Brooklyn Museum
Andy Warhol and Jean-Michel Basquiat, September 1985. Photograph: ©Richard Drew/AP
Basquiat and Warhol © LIZZIE HIMMEL
Basquiat inside New York City's Vrej Baghoomian Gallery in 1988 ©Mark Sink
Jean-Michel Basquiat, 1987, in his New York studio © Muna Tseng Dance Projects, Inc.
Portrait of Jean-Michel Basquiat in St. Moritz © Lee Jaffe/Getty Images.
Sotheby’s auction footage ©Sothebys
Footage used
www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/...
www.christies.com/features/Je...
www.theartstory.org/artist/ba...
CREDITS
© The Estate of Jean-Michel Basquiat/ Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York/ ADAGP, Paris. Licensed by Artestar, New York.
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[@GreatArtExplained]

Great Art Explained totally unique merchandise available here - crowdmade.com/collections/greatartexplained

[@RoanPretorius-de7xv]

Sorry I think it’s ugly- bizarre and horrible. I can’t speak to his talent, but “supernatural”? Never in my opinion

[@mom2mmpt]

This would be a great video to show highschoolers, whether they are artists or not. It shows how even the most talented people often feel misunderstood. That if it feels like someone is trying to minimize you or tear you down, they probably are. And they are so wrong. It also shows how depression can affect everyone. I wish he had been able to win the battle, but what helped me with my struggle included medication, which wasn't readily available at the time. Some may say that medication might have dulled the talent of true artists, but I know how depression is a paralytic. If he had been able to find proper support, he simply would have been able to do more, paint more, and share more. I'm grateful to have learned more about him from his sisters. They are awesome.

[@stretchhfab7315]

Nothing more then finger painting and being in the right place at the right time. Never could figure out why people think he's so great.....

[@careyyost4981]

It’s *fine* if you don’t like art ;) Anyone who loves abstract or non-representational painting, understands how it’s created *know* he was very skilled and brilliant. They know it. Stay mad 🎉

[@jasperclydeinsd592]

When asked why he was so angry....man I really felt his frustrated silence. He was as sick of explaining systemic racism then as I am today. Almost nothing has changed.

[@GreatArtExplained]

Thanks for the comment 🙏

[@lebronjames7041]

A lot has changed , you can’t compare times then with times now

[@grzegorzswist]

I dont get why do you automatically assume he was angry purely because of "systemic racism". Young, rebellious artists like him can be angry at the whole world and without specifics. Racism he experienced maybe wasn't even one of his biggest problems.

[@thomasmeable]

@@grzegorzswist He faced racism everyday and was not recognized because of it. Of course it's what he's most angry about.

[@grzegorzswist]

@@thomasmeable But later he was super recognised. He was sleeping with Madonna for g sake. If he had not OD and cut his career short he would be another Picasso.

[@superarisu]

When the interviewer asked him what he was angry about, and he said nothing, I felt that.

[@GreatArtExplained]

It’s a powerful moment - thanks for watching!

[@allanenriquez2945]

The song “Basquiat” by Jamila Woods is about this exact moment. It’s a beautiful song about justified anger.

[@adamsasso1]

Me too...

[@ForMindlessConsumption]

@@nivens.mctwisp misery and anger are the most powerful emotions an artist has to be creative. there's no doubt basquiat had an unbridled unspeakable anger towards himself and the world

[@lestudio76]

You can see it in his face

[@ilcapitanoalexandr8698]

The fact that his mother gifted him with an anatomy book after he recovered from the accident, shows how well foundated was the Family he came from. Simply terrific

[@hansolo631]

Isn't this kind of the soft racism of lowered expectation? A burgeoning artist receiving an anatomy book isn't so noteworthy - except that they're black. Anyways I personally find both Warhol and Basquiat's work kind of uninteresting. I guess I like my art to be technically sublime

[@NuttyNeil76]

@@hansolo631 yeah totally agreed Han Solo

[@kaizokuAUTO]

@@hansolo631 not sure what you're on about frankly. seems like you just wanted to tell everyone that you don't like warhol or basquiat, not that anyone cares

[@zambezijack]

Thought the EXACT same thing ❤️🎨

[@Uokn]

I honestly feel like Andy(gay weirdo) groomed him

[@alexdeleon872]

I don’t understand art, and I’m not too interested in art, but I chose this video anyway. Two minutes in the narrator had me interested in someone I’d never heard of before. By the end I was genuinely sad that he died so young and he wasn’t still making art. These videos are damn good.

[@brunodesrosiers266]

You see? You’re not as dumb as you thought! - I am saying this in a friendly fashion… Cheers Brother!

[@BillizMuzic]

The art is damn good.

[@luismangiaterra1031]

I can make a painting much better than him. I'll paint a painting of the inside of a toilet, I'll take a dump in the middle of it and send it to the museum of modern art.

[@juniorjames7076]

@@luismangiaterra1031 I think you are in the wrong place, my friend. I'm sure there are Bugs Bunny cartoons on KZbin more suitable for your brain level.

[@luismangiaterra1031]

@@juniorjames7076 how's a black painting of a skull any good? He committed suicide because he knew he was just being used for marketing, his paintings look like kids finger painting. Actually the people who painted those cartoons are much more talented than him. He knew that.

[@avedic]

I love Basquiat's style.....his fashion, aesthetic, etc. He just looked....cool. Almost like he was genuinely ahead of his own time. In every photo....he stands out. Just magnetic, captivating, alluring. It's a damn shame he never lived long enough to understand what a profound impact he had on culture...and individual lives.

[@intangiblyeternal]

Is he not alive? For, his memory and impact is quite present, and that in itself is keeping him alive.

[@neleal1997]

@@intangiblyeternal he passed in 1988

[@hansolo631]

Umm, he looks like a normal pleasant black guy to me. His art seems technically atrocious to my eyes but like most noteworthy artists, he can probably do "real" art he just chooses this crude style, like Picasso

[@baddieminton]

@@hansolo631 why are you here then lmao

[@hesire6893]

@@hansolo631 Unlike Jean-Michel, Picasso was an f'ing art style thief who used African art as his motivation with no historical or cultural references. Han Solo the "normal" ignoramous pale skin critic who missed the depth of this tremendous talented "normal pleasant black guy", whatever the fuck that is!

[@gallerina999]

Thank you for "demythologizing" aspects of Jean-Michel Basquiat. Hank Aaron died today, one of JMB's "crowned heroes."

[@GreatArtExplained]

Oh really? Wow that is a strange coincidence!

[@courtneywilliams1909]

Hank Aaron is my 4th cousin RIP

[@welldonewit5129]

His work gets misunderstood so often, which makes sense considering how little art history is taught and even moreso when you consider how little black art history is taught. Thank you for doing this artist.

[@spiritmatter1553]

*more so is two words. From an OCD Professional English Major. Peace! ✌🏼

[@welldonewit5129]

@@spiritmatter1553 my phone does what it likes. You have no idea how many times it changes a bit to abit just because it won't add a space between small words. Feel free to skip reading any of my posts if it bothers you.

[@ebenezergatsby5848]

How is it misunderstood?

[@chickadee72354]

Worst paintings ever blah

[@dreioo8759]

I can't even imagine how he would have evolved as an artist, that's how unique he was.

[@aylix2137]

By learning the basics of drawing and painting, for starters. Something Warhol could have done as well.

[@linkoln_sosias]

@@aylix2137 yeah i feel like he wouldve touched on realism a little and then switched to a whole new art style and subject matter

[@linkoln_sosias]

it actually hurts to know we lost him

[@tenonakin9237]

Unique in his own crappy way. LOL

[@phyllissanfiorenzful]

I used to see his postcards on the train in the 70’s.

[@GreatArtExplained]

Wow

[@phyllissanfiorenzful]

@@GreatArtExplained Yup, I read somewhere those cards were selling for 10 grand.

[@user-ef4ke7em8q]

Should’ve stole them ngl

[@phyllissanfiorenzful]

They were stuck in the ads for any one to take, but who knew?

[@phyllissanfiorenzful]

@@Target00smile It's seems like you have not read his story. Or maybe you misunderstood me. His hand made postcards were stuck between the glass of MTA ads. I highly value his work and I know more about how he was exploited by the galleries in the worst possible way. But I choose not to share that privileged info with the general public. May he rest in power knowing his fellow brown artist honor his memory.

[@valeriamissalinabembry4164]

This is a fantastic intro piece into life and career of Basquiat. I appreciate the inclusion of the role of racism in the perception of him as an “exotic wunderkind”, “wild child”, or similar. While there were certainly talented Black and POC artist working at the same time and worthy of recognition, however, it was as if the art world decided that it would anoint “the one” [Basquiat], yet not make adequate moves to amplify the messages he conveyed beneath the paint, support him in pushing back on the indignities imposed upon him (i.e. how he is described as a professional, treated in general daily life...). Good (art) history encompasses the light and shadows and this is a well crafted knowledge drop!

[@GreatArtExplained]

Thanks so much Valeria. I really appreciate the comment and thanks for watching!

[@GreatArtExplained]

1.2% of global sales in the last 10 years are by African American artists - and of that 1.2% JMB sales make up 77% of it! This looks like it will be good - kzbin.info/www/bejne/pZyrZqFveL-VrpI

[@rhonnachurch6929]

AwesomeAwe

[@rhonnachurch6929]

@Tashil Ajtsho i dont think that this art is any worse than stuff ive seen that is called art. And it seems thst the 3rd comment above does prove exactly what you are saying! So i think oppression is just a useful and convenient way to market yourself( if you were them but you are not). For instance i do some pretty good art myself. It is comparible at thr very least to thus guys graphiti! But i dont have that selling point of oppression on my side, so its likey that i wont ever(in my lifetime) fund my art in a museum or make the kind of money this guy made while he was alive. I dont even have any studio to work in i paint in my bedroom. Im happy to buy real art supplies. True starving artist here. I appreciate what you have commented thank you.

[@miniartdocs_art1037]

@@GreatArtExplained I teach an A/Am art history survey & HBOs "Black Art: In the Absence of Light" is a good overview of the dialogue Black visual artists and art historians have been having for decades. Black Art is hot right now for myriad reasons; three of which are 1) art follows money; 2) more black influencers investing in black art (more black millionaires, pop icons, et al.); and, 3) it takes a REALLY REALLY REALLY long time for old ideas, ideologies, and institutions to make any increment of change. Can we get some Diego Velázquez, please??

[@antibreakfastclub4382]

One of his paintings is the cover for the Strokes’ newest album

[@Edgesofnowhere008]

Bird on Money

[@omaraftab7131]

I saw this painting and it instantly reminded me of the new abnormal.

[@aidanisenor]

And for new Mach Hommy album

[@isaiahjones8731]

@@aidanisenor Pray for haiti is sick, so glad he used Basquiat for the cover

[@karimd88]

@@isaiahjones8731 yeah it truly is amazing, also Haitian. All around great artist

[@kathleenwalsh4843]

Your respect for this artist is tangible. The choice video clips, the direction and narration captured this elusive wonderful artist in minutes. Thank you. Well done once again. So happy to have found you and your insights.

[@reuben8912]

These videos are AMAZING, I don't think there are enough art history videos on youtube, and these are excellent quality. I would die of excitement if you made a 40-minute videos series where in each one you would go over one artists entire life story.

[@GreatArtExplained]

Oh thanks so much for the great comment! I would love to do longer videos at some point, but I like the 15-minute format for now. Thanks for watching!

[@reuben8912]

@@GreatArtExplained great :)))))

[@gandugamer2317]

@@GreatArtExplained I second that 40 minutes video idea, I would like to see your perspective on Henry Darger with his life story. Btw. New here in your channel, just subscribed. Good luck for your future videos, will be looking forward to it.

[@st4erry909]

@@GreatArtExplained I love the 15 mins but longer ones I don’t mind the explanation is so great

[@archerwest]

THIS.

[@josephirvin56]

This channel is a goldmine

[@GreatArtExplained]

What a great comment. Thanks!

[@robertcarter5746]

I’m an art consultant and this video was short and precise. The details are superb and the narrator exquisitely involved. You did Basquiat proud!!!!🙏🏾🍾💗

[@Alexbaird83]

I read a little bit about Basquiat in art classes in high school, but knew very little about him or his work other than that people assumed he had no background in art because of his race and the “scribbley” quality of his paintings, but that he actually had an excellent art background and education. I appreciated those facts, but the one or two photos of his works in those art books, aside from being of a unique and recognizable style, didn’t have a great effect on my consciousness at the time. Seeing the works in person at the AGO several years ago was a completely different experience. I was not prepared for the emotional impact his paintings would have on me; I nearly cried at one point. I’m just happy that he is more a part of our consciousness of great artists than he was just twenty years ago.

[@matsuihenriques2013]

Having seen his art at the AGO??? Well, that is news to me. Lucky you. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾🙏🏾

[@lonniefarrare6083]

This was the most interpretive looks at Basquiat that shatters a lot of the myths that still exist about his career. Great work!

[@GreatArtExplained]

As you can see I leave up negative comments, there are plenty on this Basquiat feed. However I deleted that comment and its responses because it was abusive. It's funny how the money laundering issue only ever comes up with Basquiat or modern art, when, in fact, if you understand Money Laundering and art, it is ALL forms of art. ISIS have been trading in antiquities for years. Money launderers also trade in Medieval ecclesiastical art. Yes there is money laundering, we know that. But it is not just modern art or Basquiat that are being bought and sold. The truth is, people who don't like Modern art and it would seem Basquiat in particular, are looking for ANY excuse to knock it. I will never understand why people who don't like an artist click on videos about them. Isn't life too short? Aren't there other videos about artists you actually like?

[@GreatArtExplained]

@@Tretas. My instinct is not to answer you any more, as this will go on forever, but I feel I should respond. Sales of modern art in Mexico did NOT drop 70% - sales of ART dropped 70%, which includes ALL types of art and antiques. You are correct, Modern art is a commodity used by Money Launderers. As is real estate, antiques, islands, offshore bank accounts etc etc. By saying Basquiat's work is only bought by money launderers, your underlying message is "his work is worthless and only crooks will buy it". It's a way to back up your argument that he is "untalented", "shit" "overrated" but it's obvious what you are really saying. You say: "almost all of Basquiat's output was purchased or smuggled this way". Now, as you know, that is a lie. ONE of Basquiat's paintings, "Hannibal" was attempted to be smuggled out. There is zero proof any others were. Zero. I get three negative comments on this video 1. He's shit/untalented/overrated 2. My child can do that 3. Money Laundering All three comments can be distilled down to: "I don't like this". If you don't like or understand something that's fine. Finally, what you think is abuse or racist, and what I think is, may be two very different things. What I think is abusive or racist IS getting deleted. Thanks so much for the debate. That's why art is so great, it inspires strong emotions in us all. At least we are not indifferent.

[@GreatArtExplained]

​@@pradamik Here's why "Raziel" - I am bored with the same "dudes" coming back again and again posting the same "WTF" aggressive and disrespectful comments usually using foul language (oh snap!). Not only that but some of them, are posting under more than one pseudonym (and are too stupid to disguise the fact they are saying the same thing). One guy posted under THREE pseudonyms! Not only that but usually when I check their profile, they have no subscribers, no information, and like you, don't use their real name and obviously don't have a photo. They are just trolls, taking up too much of my time, and I just don't want it on my feed. Happy to have any criticism, but not the endless repetitive nonsense. If you don't like something, make your point and move on.

[@user-vv1pb6kq5g]

@@GreatArtExplained ignore them, man. It's either people who flaunt an obvious political bias and are unwilling to understand the social climate of the period, or the "modern art trash!!!" crowd.; both of which clearly didn't come here to have a reasonable discussion about the painting at hand. You know Basquiat was a great painter who fought against racial prejudice in his life and in his works, no matter how much these guys will argue against it. If they don't like it, then whatever, let them be. Feeding into them is a genuine waste of time

[@46foryounger]

@@user-vv1pb6kq5g this is so true how can one think that a black man doesn’t experience racial injustice when the same racial injustice is still going on today? What planet are these commenters from?? Ignorance at its finest. Does anyone consider the fact as well that his mother who introduced him to art ended up in a mental institution and the profound effect that has on him and his behavior and drug use? There are so many deep layers of consciousness in his work and true everyone’s art isn’t for everybody. Fr

[@amyclay5936]

As an artist who lived in downtown NYC in the 80s, I was the same age as Basquiat, and he was ubiquitous in the art world. Sadly I never met him, but he became one of my all time favorites. I would see Warhol out with his entourage but he seemed at the time somewhat of a has-been. Basquiat boosted him vs. the other way around. I wish I had paid more attention at the time but you know about hindsight! I just found your channel and I’m hugely impressed. I’ve studied art history my whole life but your presentation is top notch. New subscriber, thank you, keep it up!

[@GreatArtExplained]

Thanks so much Amy for the comment - and for watching!

[@juniorjames7076]

I took maybe two classes on art history in college. I did the minimum to barely pass to get my credits out of the way, my focus was more on rugby games and chasing girls at parties. What a regretful waste! Thank you KZbin and Great Art Explained for giving me a 2nd chance to properly learn and understand what I should have two decades ago.

[@chiefnmerexle3456]

Drop link to your art

[@lilamjazeefa9466]

Maybe you'll see this: statistically speaking, if you were using public transportation regularly, there's a decent chance you did at some point wind up on the same train as him. Especially before he was famous, which is both the longer length of time and the less chance you would have even noticed him.

[@themiarosebeautychannel7379]

I love that he spoke 3 languages. His mother who was Puerto rican did her best to influence him in the arts at a young age. What a gift! incredible talento!

[@spiritmatter1553]

A mother’s influence is so important. She is the one who passes on the culture, just as I learned ethnic recipes from my own mother. Mrs. B. shared languages, art, and a love of learning.

[@matsuihenriques2013]

3 languages,,, his father Haitian, French,,, his mother, Puerto Rican, Spanish, and him being American, English. He could read and write by the age of 4; intelligence, gifted, and his father was an educator. Grew up middle class, private school he attended. 🥁🥁🥁💥💥💥🔥🔥🔥☄☄☄

[@StephySon]

@@matsuihenriques2013Haitian Creole, not Haitian French

[@BillizMuzic]

He seems so timeless to me. In the pictures of himself and in the art. He could be alive now, 50 years ago, 30 years from now. Like I saw him on the street yesterday. Strange. Maybe because he is so important to culture... Maybe because he is so blessed with this ability he has, had....

[@arunkhanna2496]

Jeez, that interviewer at 14:00 seems more like an interrogator. Which probably was a tone all too familiar to Basquiat throughout his life. What an amazing genius. Riding With Death is haunting.

[@Noise_floorxx]

Absolutely

[@elizabethrenzetti5537]

That was so fascinating. I can't believe none of his works hang in the UK! I love the way you blend art history and documentary footage to tell these stories

[@GreatArtExplained]

So many institutions overlooked him, and by the time they caught up, they couldn’t afford it!

[@karlalabrador6699]

hello! I remember seeing one of his paintings at the Philips gallery near Bond Street (London) 🧚🏽‍♂️

[@k_a_y_l_e_e]

there was an incredible exhibit that toured the US galleries. i was lucky enough to see it at the brooklyn museum a few years ago. HUGE collection of his paintings and notebooks, and an amazing interview playing on a loop where he just messes with the interviewer the whole time (it's honestly hysterical bc the woman is taking herself sooo seriously and he sees that and takes advantage of it. highly recommend it if you can find it on youtube). i saw it again when it came to the cleveland museum of art about a year later. i've seen great art all over the world and i still think about that exhibit just about every day.

[@ricimercury9490]

UK have plundered too many artworks from around the world, they have more than enough

[@GreatArtExplained]

Please leave a comment (even a short one) and "like" the video. It really helps promote the channel on KZbin. I appreciate it! James

[@hw-rg7gn]

Another brilliant video. "Untitled" was sold again in 2022...$195M.

[@VITORB82]

I was never ever interested in these type of content. This channel is changing that. Fantastic channel.

[@GreatArtExplained]

So good to hear - thanks 🙏

[@avedic]

Around 2005 I went on a week long trip to NYC with my college's student art group. It was a pretty eye opening life changing trip all around. But I particularly remember the day we toured an exhibit of nothing but Basquiat works. Until that day, I'd never even _heard_ of him...so I went in with zero expectations. And.....it just floored me. The EXUBERANT creativity was palpable....and in some way, genuinely woke up a part of me that had either been dormant, or never before existed. I'm still grateful for that....

[@kmadge9820]

Same here. Immensely exciting. And there was a hum of excited voices in the gallery , a crackling energy.

[@brunodesrosiers266]

Every now and then one comes across an exceptional channel: watching only one video gives you that feeling of having found gold. This is one of them!

[@TheMugglex]

i got chills when his painting was finally sold for the second time for that amount. it’s priceless.

[@pprehn5268]

I will say that image of the skull is brilliant, and drew me into a subject I didn't think I'd be interested in.

[@GreatArtExplained]

Thanks for giving it a try - I appreciate it - and thanks for watching!

[@jshurvell]

I thought I knew everything about Basquiat but this film has so many interesting new nuggets of information. Bravo!

[@GreatArtExplained]

Thanks! And thanks for watching!

[@mercatorprmerc3040]

As a Puerto Rican artist growing up in New York in the 80s same as Jean Mitchell i know where his anger and his genious came from , he was our light he isnpired me to do many great things in life and live my life according to what makes me happy and not what society establishes what i must be in order to live a complete and fullfil life . Artista hasta la Muerte

[@StephySon]

Puerto Rico and Haiti, our shared Taino ancestors when the islands were Boriken and Ayiti. Of our African enslaved ancestors. He carried both worlds on his heart growing up in our city New York

[@jessedubay5964]

This is easily my new favorite channel on youtube. Please keep them coming

[@sarahw2938]

Fascinating! I’d never heard of this artist before. Thank you for doing this series. I’m really enjoying it!

[@inaudiblefx323]

As soon as I heard Lotus 72 D as the intro I knew I was in good hands

[@alexandraetienne9540]

Please continue uploading these videos and growing your channel. I am so thankful to have found it. Art is such an important subject and a relevant one - we can see just how current Basquiat's paintings are now. You explain it so well. Thank you.

[@anushareflects]

A truly phenomenal video on Basquiat. I love the efforts you take in compiling each of these.

[@lynn7192]

I love this!!! Please never stop this great art series! Keep it up, you’re awesome and i wait patiently for every video

[@rhythmythicles]

These videos are really inspiring, particularly for a person unfamiliar with many of these artists and works. I know some elevate art as an experience, but I find information and context really enhances such experiences! Thank you!

[@ThepurrrBlog]

I think I've watched your video 4 times so far and become memorized by something new each time. I've also forwarded this video to my friends that have younger children who love art. Thank you ❤️

[@gamby16a]

I love that I'm able to learn so much about art, so easily with this series. I've already learned so much from your videos. You're providing something very important here: free, brilliant education for those who want it.

[@krashg992]

I took a flight from Los Angeles to New York for myself taking a cab ride to Brooklyn to the Greenwood cemetery just to visit Jean-Michel. I’ll go again when the spirit moves me

[@GreatArtExplained]

Thanks for watching! 🙏

[@cesarmaurera1]

I lived in NYC in the late 90s and it was as if everyone had forgotten Basquiat. It saddened me, because It was as if people did not realise how extraordinary his work was. The notion that no public art collection in the US ever bought a Basquiat says it all. But then again, it felt like back then there was this bubble of fascination with the "Friends" version of NYC...

[@Aye.919]

This channel is blowing my mind. I watched it as I have my morning coffee. So grateful for this

[@andresgonzalez-gm5ry]

This channel is just beyond superb. Fantastic work!

[@navyforeveryoungjean-phili5940]

I truly truly truly appreciate this report

[@datdamnkez]

Thank you for giving one of my favorite artists a justified review

[@GreatArtExplained]

Thank YOU for watching and for the great comment!

[@datdamnkez]

@@GreatArtExplained no thank you for the amazing documentary I really appreciate it 🙏

[@veronicarivera3218]

This morning I took an exam which required me to bring in examples from history to support my argument. Saw this video last night and was able to weave the theme and message you conveyed into my essay so naturally, a true sign I grasped the story you told. Thank you truly- I love your channel ☺️

[@dropkickirish4449]

He was a talentless hack who had the artistic proficiency of a 6-year-old. This is why his “works” do not hang anywhere, because they’re garbage. And this is also why one of his pieces sold for $110,000,000, because contemporary art - which is comprised of 95% postmodern abstract scribble trash - is nothing more than a conduit of tax evasion for the wealthy. How so many dopes are reeled in by these clowns I will never know. Discordant and chaotic scribbles of dark colors = anger and feelings. Bravo! So deep and complex. This isn’t a phase in the art world either, but rather the best that “artists” can do and it’s now indefinitely the status quo and will only become worse. It takes zero effort by passionless hacks who only seek fame and fortune, which is the equivalent to the rise of the KZbin/Instagram/Twitter “celebrity” who also produces nothing of value because they are vapid, hollow, empty vessels and charlatans.

[@markmywords2840]

Could not agree with you more. Read the comments on this video. They're hysterical. Basquiat mumbles an incoherent nonsequitor about being angry but can't say why, and these lickspittles say "DAMN. THAT WAS DEEP. I REALLY FELT HIS PAIN" The only thing Warhol got right was that people worship FAME and assume FAMOUS means GREATNESS. I see Modern Art as a mass Psy-Op to convince people not to trust their instincts, or believe their "lying eye" and instead what they are TOLD to see.

[@kencur9690]

Yup, exactly. The amount of self-gratification is astounding. For that is what this is: it takes effort to create truly great art... but it also takes effort to recognize it and understand it. Far easier for the intellectual child to relish in the works of a peer.

[@jamiemckelvie342]

For anyone wondering, the music at the end is by a band called SAULT, a brilliant black band that challenge quite a lot of current racial issue Incredibly fitting for a Basquiat video

[@spiritmatter1553]

Man has a rare talent for using the most exquisitely perfect music in his videos.

[@spiritualbestie]

I absolutely loved how this was done!

[@arymonem]

Your channel is amazing, and I love watching it. But I was so intrigued by this one, that I had to watch it again! Thank you

[@OBIA1C]

This synopsis was very compelling and beautiful. I genuinely have tears in my eyes, there is something about Basquiat's spirit. So beautiful.

[@fitzmauriceworks]

A great watch, highlighting the highs, lows and injustices. Huge output in seven years - more institutions should have his work.

[@general4theages]

He is my favorite artist, thanks for doing this.

[@EarthToMitchell]

I love this channel. Hands down the best way to learn more about art.

[@HopskotchBunny]

What a beautiful and bittersweet video about an artist I always wondered about. My heart feels broken for his pain. I am so sorry he is gone. Love your channel. Thank you 🙏

[@stefandemetriou6050]

Another excellent episode. Always entertaining and informative. New found appreciation for an artist I've always admired. Keep them coming please!

[@GreatArtExplained]

Thanks for the great comment, I really appreciate it! More are on their way - Keep watching!

[@swelldays7970]

that clip you included where they tell him that rumor about being held in a basement or something,,, ughhh his reaction, you could really feel the frustration, and then he says if i was a white artist they'd just say artist-in-residence ,, and god that is so frustrating if i were in his position i truly don't know how i'd be able to deal with that constant stream of belittlement he faced in his career :(( it's so terrible he had to experience that,, this was wonderfully done ! with all the sections and the initial discussion of the painting that is expanded throughout the video, it's so well thought out and informative thank you

[@floralwallpaperenthusiast6631]

I’m really enjoying this series mate, thanks so much

[@eyeballman2]

So much i didn't know here, I've always loved the seemingly spontaneous style of Basquiat. Thanks for all your videos. As usual, exceptional content very professionally done.

[@kenbatchelor8284]

Many many thanks for your short but brilliant explanations. I have learnt more from them than many years of longer and more traditional programmes. Keep up the great work.

[@GreatArtExplained]

What a great comment! 🙏 thank you for watching!

[@lex_inker]

I love these video breakdowns! please give us more! I would love to hear about Jackson Pollock if possible. KEEP IT UP!

[@Misspol222]

A great insight into a brilliant and brutally underrated artist. Such a shame there are so many comments hating on his art.

[@cotton-reel]

Another incredible episode. Thanks for making these.

[@MariaVosa]

"Warhol's mascot" What utterly condescending racist trash of a comment. Great video essay and I really appreciate how you work with both images and music to buid a story around the art. It is truly a crime not more of Basquiat's paintings are available in museums.

[@ericwilliams2122]

why racist?

[@MariaVosa]

@@ericwilliams2122 Seriously?

[@n00b1n8R]

@@MariaVosa yeah. Why racist?

[@DPoner]

Cringe

[@sweetpickklez]

@@n00b1n8R rather than being treated as warhols equal calling him “Warhol’s mascot” reduces him down to what is basically a step above a prop. This goes hand and hand with how he treated through a good portion of his career. I’d say it was racist to refer to him as “Warhol’s mascot” because odds are a white artist wouldn’t have gotten the same treatment. Much like the comments during his residency.

[@jeffijeff]

Loved the video editing, SFX and music selection. Bloody well done mate.

[@GreatArtExplained]

Thanks 🙏

[@hasanshaikh4463]

These are wonderful. The editing is fantastic. Time flies by and I don’t even realize it was 10-15 mins.

[@bparmeggiani]

I absolutely love your videos!!! ! I had never heard of this artist, and loved learning about him!

[@sebastian122]

Wow. This was educational on so many fronts. Thank you for this.

[@GreatArtExplained]

Thanks 🙏

[@emaf.]

One of the most unique, misunderstood artist of our time. And a personal favorite. If you ever get a chance to see his work, it’s totally life changing. Rest in power Jean-Michel 🤍

[@mariahmunnis6315]

Excellent commentary. Since I found your videos a few weeks ago, I'm binge-watching.

[@Mpayne1472]

I knew of his work. But damn you have taken your craft to another level. Thank you

[@noahnipperus7320]

Goals accomplished my guy! "I want to present art in a jargon free, entertaining, clear and concise way with no gimmicks. " Got a LKD&SBSCRBLD from me

[@GreatArtExplained]

Thanks Noah. I appreciate the great comment - and thanks for watching!

[@athenlafoy1]

I love your channel! Even though I may not like all of the art, I still love the way your portray the history of the artists and the significances of their works. Prior to watching the video, I had no idea who Basquiat was, now I have an outline of his story.

[@GreatArtExplained]

That’s all I want - people to be open minded. We can’t all like everything but my films look at how work fits into the pantheon of art history - thanks 🙏

[@vikramsurya6051]

Yours connection making skills in between references from one's life, are exceptional.

[@Heedy770]

I'm so glad to have found your channel!!

[@cotinatraphouse7509]

The one thing with this skill is that the more I analyze it the more things I realize

[@Tommyscooter]

Strange how all the prophets die young. Second time i cry watching your edits. Thanks bro

[@zabrac]

really love your videos, they are nuggets of gold and i am very grateful to you for doing them

[@michaelwood3022]

Loved this. Always been curious about his work

[@katelyn4358]

I love how you kept giving him his crowns :)

[@xiomarababilonia9271]

Wonderfully done! Thank you so much for sharing this.

[@GreatArtExplained]

Thank you! And thanks so much for commenting!

[@DaVe-jz7gt]

This is SUCH a GOOD channel. So interesting having this mysterious world explained to me

[@christophery7347]

Seeing his work in person is completely different experience. They are somehow powerful

[@shenelerosal8903]

Yes, great art 💙 and greatly explained. Thank you

[@weeleelee5843]

This is an exceptional channel. No matter how much I think I know, I always learn something new. The one on Mona Lisa was revelatory - and I've taken any number of lectures at the Louvre. Thank you so much, James, for all your time and knowledge.

[@GreatArtExplained]

Thanks Lee 🙏

[@0HARE]

I so enjoyed this episode! Upon first seeing the signature painting, I didn’t understand it. Your insightful explanation brought it into focus, and the power of the man’s work and life made me an enthusiastic convert. Thank you, and thank Jean-Michael Basquiat for the audacious inspiration. Bravo!

[@RandomPerson-bg3bv]

I love this Untitled skull, for some reason I keep coming back to it, for me it repersents a form of structured chaos and I love that

[@konstantinospapaioannou2588]

Your videos are beyond perfect!!!!! Thank you so much for your effort and your knowledge

[@GreatArtExplained]

What a nice thing to say - thanks for watching 🙏

[@deceptivepanther]

I love the myth-busting in these explanations. They are so coherent and lacking in all the usual, stifling BS. It really allows me enjoy the art, so much more than I thought I could.

[@Gian-ni]

The only reason he made it is cause he was gay and was having (disgusting) gay sex with influential gays.

[@donnabryant8985]

Thank you for shining a light on this gifted young man...

[@cuvvychase3626]

Beautiful breakdown of an outstanding artist! Thank you for this awesome content

[@itsmeurboy]

Love your content man, your channel is gonna blow up

[@GreatArtExplained]

Thanks so much!

[@nelsonx5326]

Very good. He was an excellent artist. Very interesting work. An art snob might not appreciate his style. And style he had in abundance, very personal style. Sometimes art is just decorating a surface.

[@artblock9971]

This was truly awesome!

[@adel3529]

That was very informative, I didnt know any of this. Now I understand his paintings so much more. Simple, easy to follow and listen to interesting facts about his life and his work.

[@Milan-fo7tq]

I love your youtube channel so much, I am astonished you don't have more subscribers. I can't wait to see what other artworks you dive into, would love to one about Francis Bacon and Goya.

[@GreatArtExplained]

Thanks for the great comment. Tbh I started it for fun during lockdown and I’m astonished I have so many people watching! It grows every day. Thanks for watching!

[@jessiehaigh6965]

This video is so well done - thank you! I visited Basquiat’s exhibit this year at the MFA Boston and this video made me understand more about him and his life. I now have a much greater appreciation for his work. 🙏

[@daniellewhite8065]

Thank you for yet another great art story

[@catarayen9407]

your videos are awesome and very elegant! I´m very happy to have found this treasure!