Keith Haring Tate Liverpool is an exhibition showcasing the work of the late artist Keith Haring. The exhibition was held at Tate Liverpool, the modern art gallery in the heart of the city, from October 2018 to February 2019. The exhibition included over 80 of Haring’s works, including large-scale installations, paintings, sculptures, prints and sketches.
The show aimed to explore the life and work of Haring, and his impact on contemporary art and culture. It showcased the breadth of his work, from his iconic figures of dancing figures, barking dogs and flying saucers, to his more serious works that addressed the social and political issues of the day. The exhibition was a comprehensive retrospective, taking visitors on a journey through the artist’s life and career.
Early Life and Career
Keith Haring was born in Reading, Pennsylvania in 1958. He moved to New York in 1978 and quickly became part of the vibrant downtown art scene. He was influenced by the graffiti art movement of the time and developed a distinctive style of his own, combining bold lines and vivid colours. His work often featured iconic figures, symbols and messages that explored social issues such as AIDS, racism and nuclear war.
Haring quickly gained recognition for his work, and in the 1980s his art appeared on walls, galleries and streets around the world. He also collaborated with other artists and musicians, including Andy Warhol, Grace Jones and Madonna. He was a passionate advocate for social causes, and set up the Keith Haring Foundation to support AIDS-related charities.
The Exhibition
The exhibition at Tate Liverpool featured over 80 of Haring’s works, including large-scale installations, paintings, sculptures, prints and sketches. It showcased the breadth of his work, from his iconic figures of dancing figures, barking dogs and flying saucers, to his more serious works that addressed the social and political issues of the day. Visitors were able to explore the artist’s life and career, and gain an insight into the influences and inspirations behind his work.
The exhibition also included a number of interactive elements, such as a graffiti wall where visitors could leave their own messages, and a ‘Listen & Watch’ room which featured a selection of audio and video clips about Haring and his work. There was also a selection of books and publications about the artist and his art.
Conclusion
The exhibition at Tate Liverpool was an important retrospective of the work of Keith Haring, and a fitting tribute to the life and legacy of the artist. It showcased the breadth of his work, from his iconic figures to his more serious works, and gave visitors an insight into the influences and inspirations behind his work. The exhibition was a celebration of the artist and his art, and a reminder of the power of art to inspire and challenge.