PA Spotlight: Keith Haring *Updated

My hometown of Reading, Pennsylvania isn’t home to many famous art types but we can boast of a few. One of those few is Keith Haring, an artist and social activist whose work responded to the street culture of New York City in the 1980′s.

Keith studied at the Ivy School of Professional Art in Pittsburgh before moving to New York City where he was inspired by graffiti. He first received recognition through his chalk drawings in the subways using bold lines and vivid colors. They were usually of active figures with strong messages about life and unity, a rising theme in the 80′s. Around 1982 he began forming a high-society social circle including Madonna, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Andy Warhol, another openly-gay artist.

In the mid to late 80′s his work began to revolve around themes that were more socio-political such as AIDS awareness. In 1988 he was diagnosed with the deadly disease himself and in turn established the Keith Haring Foundation to generate activism and awareness. In 1990 he unfortunately passed from the HIV-AIDS related disease, but his legacy lives on through his foundation, friends and continuing exhibitions.

Andy Mouse

There is a new documentary by Christina Klausen about Keith Haring showcasing his life and work, titled “The Universe of Keith Haring”. From small boy in a conservative rural town in Pennsylvania to an activist-artist in New York City with a legacy that is as large as his life.

*Update

The Goggleworks in Reading, Pennsylvania will be screening the movie mentioned above,  May 1 – May 7 in honor of Keith Haring’s birthday. On May 4 there will be an after-film discussion with special guest, Kay Haring.