Louisiana Museum Showcases Jean-Michel Basquiat’s Iconic Heads

The Louisiana Museum of Modern Art in Denmark will open a groundbreaking exhibition dedicated to the renowned artist Jean-Michel Basquiat on January 30, 2024. Titled “Headstrong,” this exhibition marks the first comprehensive showcase focused on Basquiat’s depictions of heads and will run until May 17, 2024. Featuring 45 works, the exhibition highlights pieces created between 1981 and 1983, an era recognized as pivotal in Basquiat’s artistic journey.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Basquiat developed a fascination with anatomy and science early in life. Following a childhood car accident that left him hospitalized, his mother gifted him a copy of Gray’s Anatomy. This book significantly influenced his artistic expression. When asked about his creative process, Basquiat noted, “I suppose I would start with a head.” This insight serves as a thematic anchor for the “Headstrong” exhibition.

Exploring Identity Through Art

“Headstrong” delves into the complex interplay between surface and psyche in Basquiat’s work. The pieces feature a blend of caricature, abstraction, and anatomical references, collectively articulating a spectrum of emotions and identities. They reflect themes of invisibility, power, race, and representation, particularly during a time when Black artists often received minimal recognition.

The exhibition showcases works on paper, which were integral to Basquiat’s practice. Many of these drawings were created using rich oil stick, and their raw intensity is enhanced by the presence of dirt and shoe scuffs, a testament to their creation on the studio floor. Most remained private during his lifetime, offering a rare glimpse into the evolution of a singular motif and prompting discussions about their personal and conceptual significance for the artist.

As Sophia Heriveaux, Basquiat’s niece, articulates in the recent publication “Jean-Michel Basquiat: The Head – The Mind,” these pieces invite viewers to connect with Basquiat as “a fellow human mind.” This perspective encourages a deeper engagement with his broader explorations of identity and cultural commentary.

Accompanying Publications and Insights

A catalogue accompanying the exhibition will be available through the Louisiana Museum. This publication features new interviews with contemporary artists such as Arthur Jafa, Julie Mehretu, Dana Schutz, Alvaro Barrington, and George Condo, who was both a friend and contemporary of Basquiat. These insights promise to enrich viewers’ understanding of Basquiat’s legacy and the ongoing relevance of his work.

For those interested in exploring this significant exhibition, further information can be found on the museum’s website. The “Headstrong” exhibition not only celebrates Basquiat’s artistic genius but also underscores his lasting impact on contemporary art and culture.