Remembering Keith Haring

Keith Haring was born today in 1958. The Pennsylvania native moved to New York City to attend the School of Visual Arts, where he studied painting. He started as a street artist in the 1980s by chalking empty boards in the subway, each piece presenting a strong statement that responded to the New York City's "street culture." Beginning in the start of his career as an artist, his signature symbol was the "Radiant Baby." All of Haring’s artwork features vibrant colors and bold lines to carry a message of unity. 

In 1988 when Haring was diagnosed with AIDS he started the Keith Haring Foundation. The organization purpose is to promote awareness of the disease through artwork to various AIDS organizations and children’s programs.

Keith Haring died on February 16^th, 1990 of AIDS-related complications. His artwork and message are still alive today, most recently in MOCA's Art in the Streets exhibit. Happy Birthday Mr. Haring!