Basquiat's Defacement: The Untold Story

In 1983, Jean-Michel Basquiat painted "Defacement (The Death of Michael Stewart)" to honor the memory of a young black artist who passed away from injuries sustained while in police custody after being accused of tagging a New York City subway station. This catalog examines a period in the artist's career through the prism of his identity and the Lower East Side as a center of activism in the early 1980s. It includes an introduction by Chaédria LaBouvier, Nancy Spector, and Joan Young, as well as an essay by Johanna F. Almiron, along with commentary from artists, activists, and other cultural figures. Ephemera related to Stewart's death, as well as artwork from his estate, are also featured.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 112 pages
Publication date: 11 July 2019
Publisher: Guggenheim Museum Publications,U.S.

Jean-Michel Basquiat's iconic painting, "Defacement (The Death of Michael Stewart)" was created in 1983 as a powerful tribute to the life and legacy of a young black artist who tragically lost his life while in police custody. The painting served as a poignant reflection on the pervasive anti-black racism and police brutality that plagued New York City during the early 1980s. This catalogue, published in conjunction with a focused exhibition of Basquiat's response to these issues, delves into a significant chapter of the artist's career through the dual lenses of his identity and the vibrant Lower East Side as a hub of cultural activism.

The introduction, penned by esteemed art historians Chaédria LaBouvier, Nancy Spector, and Joan Young, sets the stage for the exploration that follows. It provides valuable context and insights into the historical backdrop of the era, highlighting the urgent conversations about state-sanctioned racism that continue to resonate today.

In addition to the introductory essay, the catalogue features commentary from artists, activists, and other cultural figures who played pivotal roles in this historical episode. Their perspectives offer a deeper understanding of the social and political climate of the time and the impact it had on the artistic community.

The catalogue also includes a wealth of ephemera related to Michael Stewart's death, including newspaper clippings, protest posters, and samples of artwork from his estate. These materials serve as a poignant reminder of the injustices that were perpetrated against him and the broader black community.

Furthermore, the catalogue showcases paintings and prints created by other artists in response to Stewart's death. Artists such as Keith Haring, Andy Warhol, and David Hammons used their artistic talents to express their outrage and solidarity with the black community. Their works serve as a testament to the power of art as a means of activism and social change.

"Defacement (The Death of Michael Stewart)" remains a powerful and enduring symbol of the struggle against racism and police brutality. Through the lens of this iconic painting and the accompanying catalogue, we gain a deeper appreciation for the contributions of Jean-Michel Basquiat and the broader artistic community in addressing these critical social issues of the past.

Weight: 476g
Dimension: 169 x 244 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780892075485