His graffiti in NYC subways made him a world-wide art star before his death at 31. Hear my 1983 interview as Haring answers his critics, plus: a chat about Keith with Andy Warhol
Even if you don’t know one artist since Michelangelo, the chances are good that you’ll recognize the creations of Keith Haring. More than 40 years after he started drawing with chalk – for free – in New York City subway stations, it’s still easy to spot his cartoon-like symbols: radiant babies, barking wolves. Now, 35 years after his death in 1990 at age 31 (from complications related to AIDS), his paintings sell for millions, and you’ll see them in museums around the world.
When I interviewed Keith for People Magazine in 1983, he was at a turning point. Major galleries wanted his work. But some high-brow critics called him a self-promoter. They hated the fact that he put his icons on buttons and posters that he gave out for free, and on t-shirts that he sold at his NYC store The Pop Shop. So I pushed Keith to answer back, which he did. I also had a brief phone call with Andy Warhol, who explained to me what he saw in Keith’s work.
When I listen to my interview tapes 41 years later, I don’t feel qualified to explain why Keith Haring’s art still deserves your attention. So I got help from Brad Gooch, author of the authoritative 2024 biography Radiant: The Life and Line of Keith Haring. (Both Sally and I loved the book, which was a New York Times bestseller.) Brad talked with me about Keith's art and career, sharing useful insight before I play highlights from my 1983 interview with Keith.
Of course, there's another reason for this episode: I’ve held onto many treasures related to Keith – and I can't decide what to do with them. This is where I need your help.
I’ve posted pictures of my Haring treasures, along with a poll, asking for your guidance about what to save or toss. Please weigh in on our website.
For me, Keith’s art still looks lively and young. I hope you’ll enjoy flipping back in time to hear the energetic 25-year-old tell me about his art, his life, and his dreams.
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