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It’s hard to believe Basquiat is gone. It’s even harder to believe he’s been gone for 25 years.

August 12th marks the anniversary of the young artist’s untimely death and his introduction to the haunting “27 club,” which includes Jimi Hendrix, Kurt Cobain and Amy Winehouse.

Basquiat, who frolicked around New York City’s art scene with Andy Warhol and a young Madonna, began his career as a graffiti artist and soon became known for his neo-expressionist work. The Brooklynite created abstract and jarring paintings, which from his perspective, depicted his surroundings. Much of his work showcased the difference between wealth and poverty as well as segregation versus integration.

Although he lived to see some of his success, Jean-Michel, suffered from depression and succumbed to a heroin addiction without living to see his widespread cultural influence he would later have. Now, 25 years later, Basquiat is the jewel of hip-hop. Once, just an “underground artist” the legend of the troubled painter has added to not only his talent but also his allure.

a+ magazine writer Michael Gonzales takes a deeper look into the life of Basquiat, the inspiration behind some of his works including The Irony of Negro Policeman, Denial, and Three Eggs and his influence on hip hop.

Jay Z who fancies himself an art collector, owns an original Basquiat painting. Can you guess which one?

To find out which painting lives with the Carters, and more on the life of BASQUIAT + amazing photo features & video with ZOE SALDANA, FRANK OCEAN, GARY CLARK, JR, CASSIE & MORE click HERE and download the exclusive a+ mag app!

25 Years After His Death, What Basquiat Painting Does Jay-Z Own?  was originally published on theurbandaily.com