Jean-Michel Basquiat's Milestones

Jean-Michel Basquiat was an American artist who rose from street art to international acclaim, using neo-expressionist style to explore race, identity, and social commentary in his work.
1960

Birth

Jean-Michel Basquiat was born in Brooklyn, New York, to Gérard Basquiat and Matilde Andrades.

Family December 22, 1960

Multicultural upbringing

Raised in a Haitian and Puerto Rican family, exposed to art and languages from an early age.

Family December 22, 1960 - January 1, 1976
1967

Early interest in art

Showed early talent and interest in art, encouraged by his mother.

Other January 1, 1967 - January 1, 1976
1968

Childhood accident

Suffered a car accident and had his spleen removed; received a copy of 'Gray's Anatomy,' which influenced his art.

Other September 1, 1968
1976

Began graffiti as SAMO

Created graffiti under the pseudonym SAMO with Al Diaz in Lower Manhattan.

Other January 1, 1976 - January 1, 1979
1978

Attended City-As-School

Attended City-As-School in Manhattan, an alternative high school for gifted students.

Education September 1, 1978 - December 31, 1978
1980

First public exhibition

Participated in The Times Square Show, gaining attention as a visual artist.

Achievement June 1, 1980
1981

Relationship with Suzanne Mallouk

Had a significant relationship with artist and muse Suzanne Mallouk.

Relationship January 1, 1981 - December 31, 1983

Breakthrough with 'Radiant Child'

Featured in Artforum magazine as the 'Radiant Child,' launching his career.

Achievement January 1, 1981
1982

Collaboration with Andy Warhol

Collaborated with Andy Warhol on several works, forming a close friendship.

Achievement January 1, 1982 - January 1, 1986

International exhibitions

Held solo exhibitions in major galleries worldwide, including New York, Los Angeles, and Europe.

Achievement January 1, 1982 - August 12, 1988

Critical acclaim and market success

Achieved critical acclaim and commercial success, becoming one of the most prominent artists of his generation.

Achievement January 1, 1982 - December 31, 1987

First solo exhibition

Held his first solo exhibition at Annina Nosei Gallery in New York.

Achievement March 1, 1982
1988

Death

Jean-Michel Basquiat died of a heroin overdose in New York City at age 27.

Other August 12, 1988