KEITH HARING "CATALOG: TONY SHAFRAZI GALLERY" 1982

Keith Haring (1958–1990) is arguably the most recognized graffiti artist of all time. His iconic imagery developed on the subway walls of New York City in the early 1980s, breaking the barrier between high art and street art almost overnight. Haring’s art was without pretence and full of optimism. It was also accessible to the masses, both physically and visually. Haring’s distinctive, cartoon-like figures are the defining motif in his work. Thick, energetic lines evoke a sense of movement and fun. He was also a master colorist, juxtaposing vibrating hues that hypnotized viewers. This work is a first-edition copy of the catalog that was released on the occasion of Keith Haring's seminal exhibition at Tony Shafrazi Gallery, New York, in 1982. Featuring Haring's iconic Three Eyed Smiling Face on the cover, this catalog includes a forward by Tony Shafrazi, and texts by Keith Haring and Jeffrey Deitch amongst others. The catalog includes examples of Haring's varied output, including sculptures, murals, studio photographs, subway drawings photographed by close friend Tseng Kwong Chi, and 15 double-sided lithograph inserts in a coloring book section at the end. While the catalog was produced in a limited edition of 2000 copies, this particular copy is unique in that it features an original, personalized drawing in marker on the interior front cover, dedicated "FOR GORDON." Gordon Rayner was a celebrated Canadian artist, and a contemporary of Haring's. It was not uncommon for Haring to "sign" his catalogs with a drawing, and there are other examples of this. This copy offers a unique version of the "signature," with a personalized dedication to a fellow artist. This is a beautifully-designed catalog and a comprehensive look at Haring's foundational and most influential work during the early 1980s. It offers a chance to not only to own an original drawing by Haring, but an important piece of his artistic history. Haring's landmark exhibition at Tony Shafrazi gallery, alongside this catalog, helped launch his career into the next stratosphere, allowing him to leave an artistic legacy that is still revered today. Questions about this piece? Contact us, call +1.416.704.1720, or visit our Toronto Gallery. "Keith Haring" Catalog, Tony Shafrazi Gallery USA, 1982 144 pages Signed & dated "K. Haring '82" on front inside cover by artist Full page drawing with inscription "FOR GORDON" in black marker on front inside cover Signed and dated on back cover by Gordon Rayner First edition From an unnumbered edition of 2000 Printed at the Fleetwood Press, New York, 1982 Published by Tony Shafrazi Gallery, New York Softcover, metal wire bound 9”H 9.5"W 0.75"H closed Good condition. A full report is available on request. Additional images of the interior are available on request.