Jean-Michel Basquiat‘s work has inspired people from around the world over the past three decades. Also known as SAMO, he has influenced people with his neo-expressionist and primitivist throughout the ’80s. His worked gained noticed to one of Americas most well-known pop artist, Andy Warhol. Andy gave Jean a lane where he could express his art to the mass public’s radar, giving the world his view on society. The Brooklyn, New York native began his career doing graffiti in the Lower East Side, With the name SAMO trailing his famous quote “Plush safe he think.. SAMO.“

Over his career span he has done many art shows building up controversy and landed huge press in the New York Magazine and The Village Voice. Many celebs and artists in today’s world pay homage and use his art in their own style. In his last years, Basquiat was very depressed from the death of his close friend Andy Warhol and started a raging battle with drug addiction. Basquiat died on August 12, 1988, of a heroin overdose at his art studio in Great Jones Street in New York City. All that remains is his prized art pieces that he has given to the world. A legacy that will live on forever.

Earlier this year, Gagosian Gallery held an art show showcasing 38 of Basquiat’s art pieces from private collectors. It was work that he has done in 1981. It was a private event but we got to snag a couple of shots to show the world. Enjoy the works of “The Radiant Child.”

(Photos By Alonzo Alias)

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