Finding inspiration: Art Brut + Basquiat
My fascination and devotion to such a prolific artist, Basquiat, stemmed from prior studies. In high school, we were given curriculum to follow and I found myself naively submerged in Fauvism.
Later in university, Visual Communication opened my mind to a number of art movements, many of which I had never seen. I was drawn to Art Brut, also known as Outsider Art. Art Brut was an art movement founded by Jean Debuffet in France during the 1940’s. Debuffet sought art from children and mentally ill patients, deeming their work to be praised as art.
Dubuffet characterised Art Brut as: “Those works created from solitude and from pure and authentic creative impulses - where the worries of competition, acclaim and social promotion do not interfere.”
Understanding Art Brut resonated with me deeply, as I began to see Debuffet make headway for artists following this movement. There was no longer a barrier, rules and prestige to define Art.
“I start with a picture and then finish it. I don’t think about art while I work. I try to think about life.” — Jean-Michel Basquiat
This is where my attraction to Jean-Michel Basquait began to arise. His naive brush strokes, simplified drawings, unconventional canvas’ and comments on culture challenged art during his time.
Basquiat made art for himself, but for the world too. He began to gain a name for himself as SAMO during art school, graffitiing the streets of New York with poetry and political messaging. Two years on from SAMO, he made his breakthrough as a solo artist. At this time, Basquiat painted many pieces on found objects, such as fridges and discarded doors.
My fascination to Basquiat stems from studying his world, influences and understanding him as a person. His values were skewed from that of what is defined as “art” or being an “artist”, and this emulates greatly with me.
Basquiat was an art school drop out who made a means by painting on anything he could find with the belief he would find fame. I take on this ability to manifest the life I wish to live - creating for me, and for others. Not to limit ourselves with the rules we are conditioned to live.
We can find our form of expression, and it will be a means of life and personal healing.
Here are some of my book recommendations:
• Basquiat-isms, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Edited by Larry Warsh.
Basquiat-isms is one of the more recent Basquiat books I have read. Funnily enough it was gifted to me by two close friends, so I ran with it. One stays in my bag on most days, while the other lives in my bookcase. Basquiat-isms is a collection of essential quotations from Basquiat himself. We gain insight into Basquiat’s artistic persona, influences, culture, opinions and lots more. He is understated, cool and plainly human. “I don’t listen to what art critics say. I don’t know anybody who needs a critic to find out what art is.” I recommend keeping this pocket sized book with you at all times, It has all the makings of a genius’ mind unafraid of breaking boundaries.
• Crossing Lines, Keith Haring & Jean-Michel Basquiat, NGV.
Crossing Lines was held at the National Gallery of Victoria from December 2019 - April 2020. I was lucky enough to see the exhibition after travels in Vietnam. It’s safe to say I had been waiting, what felt like, all my life to see an exhibition of this size highlighting my hero. Crossing Lines includes an extensive amount of works and ideas from the duo, which are accompanied by new essays and interviews.
“Keith Haring | Jean-Michel Basquiat: Crossing Lines is a record of and a tribute to the work of two boundary-pushing, highly influential artists.” - NGV
• Jean-Michel Basquiat, The Notebooks, Edited by Larry Warsh.
The Notebooks is filled with poetry, iconic scribbles, crowns and crossed out notes. Flicking through the book, you will notice reoccurring themes seen within many of Basquiat’s paintings, only simplified. This book is a foresite of the mind of Jean-Michel, drawn on lined pages - giving us a sense of familiarity.
• Widow Basquiat A Memoir, Jennifer Clement.
Written by a mutual friend of the two, Jennifer Clement, Widow Basquiat A Memoir, follows Suzanne Mallouk and Jean-Michel’s passionate, addictive and powerful relationship. The book begins with Suzanne’s journey prior to meeting Jean-Michel and the aftermath that his fame amassed. Suzanne gives insight into the the recklessness of life in the Art world in 80’s New York City, delving into drugs, sex, art and heartbreak.
Reading this book for the first time was encapsulating, and I didn’t put it down. I am still able to read it within one sitting. Jennifer shares Suzanne’s naivety to love’s strong pull, and the feelings and emotions when things collapse. It pulls on my heart every time I read it, and I am posed with the same powerful questions once I finish it.
• Basquiat, Leonhard Emmerling, Taschen Publishing.
In my hunt to procure books with a variety of Basquiat’s work, I find Tachen produce good quality art books. This book presents Basquiat’s short but prolific career, his unique style, and his engagement with cultural issues. Keep this book on your coffee table to flick through, or one to refer back to time and time again.
Artworks featured:
Jean-Michel Basquiat, Seascape, 1983, synthetic polymer paint and oilstick on canvas and wood.
Jean-Michel Basquiat, A Panel of Experts, 1982, synthetic polymer paint and oil pastel on paper, canvas and wood.
Thumbail image: Jean-Michel Basquiat Untitled 1984, synthetic polymer paint and oilstick on canvas.