Jean-Michel Basquiat

While I agreed with other reviewers that the cover is quite flimsy, and was especially disturbed by the poor choice of paper. which is not as thick as one would expect, given the caliber of this brilliant artist, I felt that the plates were quite impressive, and was glad that there were many that filled out the full page. I thought the color reproduction was excellent. I get the sense that there are some works here that I am not familiar with. This is a book of two themes, in my mind, one the astounding talent of this young man, but also the tragedy of his brief life. The rich, colorful and exciting palate of his works, contrast with his seemingly bleak existence. On page 171, which is a gate fold, there is a gigantic black and white photo of Basquiat who appears very brooding. But open up that gate fold page and see the magnificence of the work "Offensive Orange" 1982. There is another large black and white photo of Basquiat on page217, a part of different gate fold, where he is seen in an apartment, in somewhat of a fog, near a TV, and the sadnessis so apparent. I've heard it said that he was too sensitive for this world. His great success at such a young age, was notenough to propel him forward apparently. Maybe it was a case of too young, too soon. maybe this overwhelmed him, or frightened him. This book does seem to go on and on with 321 pages. The final small black and white photos at the end of the book seem to confirm the torment of this man's existence, there are barely a few that show him in a slightly sunny mood. One imagines the amazement he might have felt had he lived to see his works valued in the many millions of dollars that has come to pass. Like, Janis Joplin, and many others, a drug overdose snuffed out this man's life, sadly not even reaching his 30s. Imagine the potential a full life could have afforded him, and the joy we would have witnessed !!! I was eagerly awaiting this book, and decided to give it 5 stars, because, despite the flaws, there is so much good here!! Part of the good, is the insight into a man, who had so much to give, from his artistic core, who couldn't outrun his demons. If one only saw the work, and had no exposure to the photos, the experience would be far less meaningful. Certainly this book in not in the same league at the Tony Shafrazi Gallery book or The Jean MIchel Basquait Show, but it is certainly worth a look , and possibly a buy !!! ( hopefully at an affordable price).

Was really pleasantly surprised at the size of the tome its full of many fabulous Jean-Michel Basquiat lots of paintings drawings social comments I can honestly say for any fan of Jean-Michel Basquiat you will love it. Malc from Manchester

バスキアが好き

This book shows some drawings and paintings which you will not find in previously published books and the articles which accompany the pictures are well written and informative. No doubt the articles benefit from much of the scholarship which has preceded them.

very good.