NGV’s summer series

By Sakshi Agrawal

Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat’s “Crossing Lines” will be The National Gallery of Victoria’s (NGV) blockbuster summer series for 2019-20.

Featuring two of the most influential artists of the ’80s, Keith Haring (1958-90) and Jean-Michel Basquiat (1960-88), Crossing Lines provides an insight into both the artists’ distinctive visual language and the intersections between their practices, lives and ideas.

It will showcase more than 300 artworks including paintings, photographs, sculptures, objects, works on paper, works made in public spaces and more.

Curated by Dr Dieter Buchhart, an art historian, come and see some iconic images that include Haring’s baby motif and dancing figures and Basquiat’s crown and head motifs.

This Melbourne-exclusive exhibition will begin with the earliest works of the artists from the streets and subway stations of New York City and will display works from both their first exhibitions. It will also stage the artists’ collaborations with icons, Andy Warhol, Grace Jones and Madonna.

Martin Foley, Minister for Creative Industries, said: “Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat shook the foundations of the art world. They used their work to highlight vital issues of the time and they created a legacy that continues today.”

NGV’s 2018/19 summer exhibition, Escher X nendo | Between Two Worlds, closed earlier last month.

Keith Haring / Jean-Michel Basquiat: Crossing Lines will run from December 1, 2019 until April 13, 2020 at NGV, Southbank.