Join us for a screening of the film ‘Boom for Real: The Late Teenage Years of Jean-Michel Basquiat’. A poet, musician and graffiti prodigy, Basquiat was an influential African-American artist who rose to success during the 1980s and played a major role in the Punk Art and Neo-Expressionism movements. The artist’s paintings helped to elevate graffiti art into the realm of the New York gallery scene, and his works referenced everything from his Haitian and Puerto Rican heritage, to political issues, pop-culture icons, and Biblical verse.
American filmmaker Sara Driver’s exploration of the pre-fame years of Basquiat offers a window into his life and the City of New York, 1978 – 81, illustrating how the city, the times and the people around him informed the artist he became and shaped his vision. Basquiat quickly went from living on the street and sleeping on friends’ sofas in the East Village to collaborating with Andy Warhol. At only 27, his troubles with fame and drug addiction led to his tragic death from an overdose. For some, the artist is seen as the product of the hyped 1980s and his work continues to serve for many observers as a metaphor for the dangers of artistic and social excess.
Bruton Art Factory Director, Suzanne Bisset will introduce the film and chair a panel including sculptor Joe Rush, artist MC Llamas, graffiti artist Stik and foundation Director Kira-Marina Von Bismarck.
This event is organised by Where West Begins and is part of Hauser & Wirth Somerset’s Autumn Artist Documentary Film Series.
Adult tickets are £8. Concession tickets are available for £4. To book or find out more, visit wherewestbegins.org.uk/event
This event is now sold out.
Roth Bar & Grill will open from 6pm for drinks and dinner. Please note, advanced booking for dinner is recommended to avoid disappointment.
Documentary.
Director: Sara Driver
Running time: 1h18
Rating: 15
