Description:

The legend of Jean-Michel Basquiat is as strong as ever.

Originally released in a jaw-dropping XXL edition, this extraordinary look into the world of Basquiat's art is now available in a conveniently compact volume, all in honor of TASCHEN's 40th anniversary. Featuring impeccable reproductions of his most groundbreaking paintings, drawings, and intriguing notebook sketches.

The book takes you through Basquiat's life year by year with lush illustrations and juicy tidbits, sprinkled with quotes from the artist himself and contemporary reviews. So, not only do you get the personal scoop on the man behind the art, but you also get the historical backdrop that helps you understand what makes this series so important. It's like a backstage pass to the art world's coolest party!

And if that's not enough, you've got a nifty introduction to the man himself from editor Hans Werner Holzwarth, plus a deep dive into his themes and artistic evolution by the brilliant curator and art historian Eleanor Nairne.

His work was inspired by a pantheon of luminaries from jazz, boxing, and basketball, with references to arcane history and the politics of street life--so when asked about his subject matter, Basquiat answered "royalty, heroism and the streets."

Hardcover

512 pages

6.1 x 8.5 in., 3.19 lb