Keith Haring - Untitled (Free South Africa) (1985)

Acclaimed street artist turned pop culture phenomenon Keith Haring was a dedicated social activist. He was a vocal advocate for the LGBT community, especially those living with HIV/AIDS, and condemned racism, inequality and social injustices, which are at the forefront of his artwork. Haring joined the international anti-apartheid movement, which opposed the oppressive and racially motivated power of the South African government. Haring wrote that "control is evil. All stories of the white man's 'expansion' and 'colonization' and 'rule' are full of horrific details of abuse of power and abuse of people," he wrote in a March 28, 1987, diary entry. Looking at the artwork in detail, the black figure is intentionally significantly larger than the white figure to express the irony of the post-colonial era in which a white minority oppressed the majority black, native population. The use of black lines provides a sense of dynamic movement of the figures. Black outlines also express a heightened awareness of more psychologically charged elements - such as the aura that hovers around the black figure's neck as a captivating collar. It is said that in 1986, Haring distributed about 20,000 poster versions of this print in New York City to mobilize support against apartheid.

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About Keith Haring

Keith Haring (1958-1990) was an American artist and a prominent figure in the contemporary art scene. Known for his iconic and often politically charged graffiti-like paintings and drawings, Haring rose to international renown through his unique style that combined lines and shapes in a vibrant and dynamic style. His art, which often addressed social and political issues, was accessible and communicative, and he used it as a means of spreading messages of love, activism, and tolerance. Haring was also a pioneer in the integration of art and activism, and was active in advocating for AIDS awareness and social justice. His legacy as an artist and activist lives on through his inspiring and influential works, which continue to speak to and move people around the world.