Gagosian Gallery has announced a groundbreaking exhibition, “Made on Market Street,” marking the first-ever showcase dedicated exclusively to the works of iconic artist Jean-Michel Basquiat produced in Los Angeles. Curated by Fred Hoffman in collaboration with Larry Gagosian, the exhibition will run from March 7 to June 1, 2024, offering a rare glimpse into Basquiat’s prolific output during his time in California.
Basquiat’s venture into the vibrant art scene of Los Angeles in the early 1980s was a significant departure from his New York roots, yet it yielded a remarkably productive period in his career. Between November 1982 and May 1984, he created around a hundred paintings, numerous works on paper, and six silkscreen editions in Venice, California. “Made on Market Street” brings together nearly thirty of these seminal works, shedding light on this pivotal era in Basquiat’s artistic journey.
Photo: Fredrik Nilsen Studio Courtesy Gagosian
Larry Gagosian reflects on Basquiat’s affinity for Los Angeles, stating, “Los Angeles has always been a great city for artists and Jean-Michel seemed to find it a refreshing change from New York.” Basquiat’s collaboration with Gagosian began in 1981 when he was invited to exhibit in LA for the first time. The subsequent solo exhibition at Gagosian Gallery in April 1982 marked his West Coast debut, establishing him as a significant voice in the art world.
Photo: Rob McKeever Courtesy Gagosian
During his time in California, Basquiat collaborated with Fred Hoffman, producing notable works such as “Tuxedo” and “Untitled” in 1982 and 1983. These large-scale silkscreen prints, characterized by stark contrasts and evocative imagery, exemplify Basquiat’s multifaceted artistic vision.
The exhibition also highlights Basquiat’s iconic paintings from this period, including “Hollywood Africans” and “Horn Players,” which pay homage to jazz legends and reflect his deep connection to music and street culture. Basquiat’s exploration of themes such as Black identity and urban life resonates throughout his works, underscoring his enduring influence on contemporary art.
Photo: © Whitney Museum of American Art/Licensed by Scala/Art Resource, NY Courtesy Gagosian
One of the exhibition’s highlights is the inclusion of Basquiat’s studio artifacts, including wooden slats from a courtyard fence that he repurposed as supports for some of his most iconic paintings. Works like “Flexible,” “Gold Griot,” and “M” showcase Basquiat’s innovative use of materials and his ability to infuse his art with layers of meaning and symbolism.
Photo: Jeff McLane Courtesy Gagosian
“Made on Market Street” is accompanied by a comprehensive catalogue featuring archival material, installation images, and essays by prominent art experts. A conversation with Larry Gagosian, Fred Hoffman, filmmaker Tamra Davis, and Basquiat’s sisters provides further insights into the artist’s life and legacy, offering a comprehensive exploration of his work in Los Angeles.
With “Made on Market Street,” Gagosian Gallery continues its commitment to preserving and promoting Basquiat’s legacy, marking the seventh exhibition of his work since his passing in 1988. As visitors immerse themselves in Basquiat’s vibrant creations, they are invited to rediscover the enduring brilliance of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.
