FINE ARTS

Radiant: The Life and Line of Keith Haring

by Brad Gooch
Harper. Mar. 2024. 512p. ISBN 9780062698261. $37.50. FINE ARTS
COPY ISBN
This new biography of artist Keith Haring is a thorough and thoughtful look at his childhood through his death in 1990 at age 31. Poet and biographer Gooch (City Poet) details how Haring’s early interest in art and eventually iconic artistic style were shaped not only by his family and teachers but also by the gritty streets of New York City and artists such as Warhol and Basquiat. Gooch describes in depth the NYC gay community and the many exhibitions, projects, friends, and lovers that were part of Haring’s life. He also details Haring’s diagnosis with HIV and his death from AIDS-related complications. Primary sources are cited throughout, including quotes from family and friends, as well as Haring’s own words as captured in his writing and in interviews.
VERDICT A solid choice for those with an interest in pop art figures or gay culture of the 1970s and ’80s, particularly in relation to the AIDS epidemic in New York City.
Reviewed by Sarah Stimson , Feb 01, 2024
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

NONFICTION

Women Artists in Midcentury America: A History in Ten Exhibitions
by Belasco, Daniel
NONFICTION

Sonia Delaunay: Living Art
NONFICTION

The Heirloomist: 100 Treasures and the Stories They Tell
by Novak, Shana
NONFICTION

Tattoo You: A New Generation of Artists
NONFICTION

Watching New York: Street Style A to Z
by Cirillo, Johnny
MEDIA

Get the Picture: A Mind-Bending Journey Among the Inspired Artists and Obsessive Art Fiends Who Taught Me How To See
by Bosker, Bianca
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?